CHAPTER

08

COM, Conservation
of Momentum
and Collision
CENTRE OF MASS (COM)
For a system of particles or a body, the centre of mass is defined as a point at
which the total mass of the system or of the body is supposed to be concentrated.
On application of external forces, centre of mass of the system of particles moves
in the same way as a point having mass equal to that of the whole system moves.

Position of centre of mass for a system of two particles

Consider two particles of masses m1 and m 2 located at position vectors r1 and r2 .
y
m1

r1 rCM
m2

r2
x

z
Inside
Fig. 8.1 System of two particles 1 Centre of mass (COM)
2 Motion of centre of mass
Then, position of centre of mass rCM is given as Linear momentum of a
system of particles
m r + m 2r2
rCM = 11 3 Collision
m1 + m 2 Types of collisions
Newton’s law of restitution
m1r1 + m 2r2 Σmi ri
rCM = =
m m
where, m = m1 + m 2 = total mass of system.
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 333

The x and y-coordinates of centre of mass can be written m1y1 + m 2 y 2 (1) (2) + (2) (3) 2 + 6 8
Similarly, y= = = =
as m1 + m 2 1+ 2 3 3
m x + m 2x 2 ⎛ −1 8 ⎞
x CM = 1 1 Therefore, the coordinates of centre of mass will be ⎜ , ⎟ .
m1 + m 2 ⎝ 3 3⎠
m1 y 1 + m 2 y 2 Example 8.2 Two particles of masses 1 kg and 2 kg are
and y CM = located at x = 0 and x = 3 m. Find the position of their
m1 + m 2
centre of mass.
Hence, the centre of mass of two particles system lies Sol. Since, both the particles lie on X-axis, so the CM will also
between the two particles on the line joining them and the lie on X-axis. Let the CM be located at x from 1 kg mass, then
distance of the centre of mass from masses is in inverse r1 = distance of CM from the particle of mass 1 kg = x
ratio of masses of the particles. and r2 = distance of CM from the particle of mass 2 kg
1 r1 m 2 = (3 − x )
i.e. r ∝ ⇒ = m1 = 1 kg m2 = 2 kg
m r 2 m1 CM

x=0 x = xm x = 3m
Consider two particles of masses m1 and m 2 at distance r
r1 = x m r2 = (3 – x) m
from each other. Their centre of mass (CM) must lie in
between them on the line joining them. Using
r1 m 2
= , we get
Let distances of these particles from the centre of mass be r2 m1
r1 and r 2 . x 2
= or x = 2 m
r 3−x 1
r1 r2
Thus, the CM of the two particles is located at x = 2 m.
m1 CM m2
Example 8.3 Two point objects of masses 1.5 g and 2.5 g
Fig. 8.2
respectively are 16 cm apart, the centre of mass is at a
1 distance x from the object of mass 1.5 g. Find the value
Q r ∝ ⇒ m1r1 = m 2r 2 of x.
m
Sol. As, centre of mass of two particles system lies between the
m 2r 2 m1r1 two particles on the line joining them.
r1 = and r2 =
m1 m2 16 cm

If the two particles have the same mass, i.e. m1 = m 2 = m, 1.5 g CM 2.5 g
then x (16 – x) cm
mr + mr 2 r1 + r 2 r1 m 2 x 2.5
r CM = 1 = ∴ From =
r2 m1
⇒ =
16 − x 1.5
⇒ x = 10 cm
2m 2
Thus, for a system of two particles of equal mass, the
centre of mass lies exactly midway between them.
Position of centre of mass for a
If m1 ≠ m 2, centre of mass is nearer to the particle of larger
system of large number of particles
mass. If we have a system consisting of n particles of masses
m1, m 2, K, mn with r1, r2, ..., rn as their position vectors at a
Example 8.1 Two bodies of masses 1 kg and 2 kg are located
at (1, 2) and (−1, 3), respectively. Calculate the coordinates given instant of time. The position vector rCM of the
of centre of mass. centre of mass of the system at that instant is given by
n
Sol. Let the coordinates of centre of mass be (x, y ). Σ mi ri
m1 r1 + m 2 r2 + K + mn rn i =1
Given, mass, m1 = 1 kg, m 2 = 2 kg rCM = =
m1 + m 2 + K + mn n
Coordinates, x1 = 1, x 2 = − 1, y1 = 2 and y 2 = 3 Σ mi
m x + m 2 x2 i =1
Q x= 1 1 n
m1 + m 2
Σ mi ri
1 × 1 + (2) (−1) i =1
⇒ x= or rCM =
1+ 2 M
1 − 2 −1 Here, M = m1 + m 2 + K + mn and Σ mi ri is called the
= =
3 3 first moment of the mass.
334 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

Further, $
ri = x i $i + y i $j + z i k m1y1 + m 2 y 2 + m 3 y 3 + m 4 y 4
Similarly, yCM =
$ m1 + m 2 + m 3 + m 4
and rCM = x CM $i + y CM $j + z CM k
1(1) + 2(1) + 3(0) + 4(0) 3
= = m = 0.3 m
So, the cartesian coordinates of the CM will be 1+ 2+ 3+ 4 10
n
∴ Centre of mass is at (x CM , y CM) = (0.5, 0.3 )
Σ mi x i
m1x 1 + m 2 x 2 + K + mn x n i =1
x CM = = Example 8.6 Three point masses m1 = 2 kg, m 2 = 4 kg and
m1 + m 2 + K + mn Σ mi m 3 = 6 kg are kept at the three corners of an equilateral
n triangle of side 1 m. Find the location of their centre of
Σ mi x i mass.
i =1
or x CM = Sol. Assume m1 to be at the origin and X-axis along the line
M
joining m1 and m 2 as shown in figure.
n n
Σ mi y i Σ mi z i Y
i =1 i =1 m3
Similarly, y CM = and z CM =
M M 1m 1m
Example 8.4 The position vectors of three particles of masses
X
m1 = 1 kg, m 2 = 2 kg and m 3 = 3 kg are r1 = ($i + 4$j + k$ ) m, m1 1m m2

r2 = ($i + $j + k$ )m and r3 = (2$i − $j − 2 k$ ) m, respectively. Find From the figure, it is clear that the coordinates of m1 are
the position vector of their centre of mass. (x1, y1) = (0, 0) that of m 2 are (x 2, y 2 ) = (1, 0) and that of m 3 are
⎛1 3⎞
Sol. The position vector of CM of the three particles will be given by (x 3, y 3 ) = ⎜ , ⎟
m1r1 + m 2r2 + m 3r3 ⎝2 2 ⎠
rCM =
m1 + m 2 + m 3 Coordinates of centre of mass are
Substituting the given values in above equation, we get 2 × 0 + 4 × 1 + 6 × 1/2 7
x CM = = m
2+4+6 12
1 ($i + 4$j + k$ ) + 2 ($i + $j + k$ ) + 3 (2$i − $j − 2k$ )
rCM = 2 × 0 + 4 × 0 + 6 × 3 /2 3 3 3
1+ 2 + 3 and y CM = = = m
$ 2+4+6 12 4
$ $
9 i + 3 j − 3k 1
= ⇒ rCM = (3$i + $j − k$ ) m ⎛ 7 3⎞
6 2 ∴ Centre of mass is at (x CM , y CM ) = ⎜ , ⎟.
⎝12 4 ⎠
Example 8.5 Four particles of masses 1 kg, 2 kg, 3 kg and
4 kg are placed at the four vertices A, B, C and D of a
square of side 1 m. Find the position of centre of mass of the
Position of centre of mass of
particles. continuous bodies
Sol. Assuming D as the origin, DC as X-axis and DA as Y-axis, For a real body, which has a continuous distribution of
we have matter, point masses are differential mass elements dm and
Y
m1 m2 their centre of mass is defined as
(x1 , y1 ) A B (x2 , y2 )
x CM =
∫ x dm = ∫ x dm
M
∫ dm
m4 m3
(x4 , y4 ) D
X
y CM =
∫ y dm = ∫ y dm
C (x3 , y3 )
∫ dm M
m1 = 1 kg; (x1, y1) = (0, 1 m)
m 2 = 2 kg; (x 2, y 2) = (1 m, 1 m) ∫ z dm = ∫ z dm
m 3 = 3 kg; (x 3, y 3) = (1 m, 0) and z CM =
∫ dm M
and m 4 = 4 kg; (x 4, y 4) = (0, 0)
Coordinates of their CM, where, M is total mass of that real body.
m x + m 2x 2 + m 3x 3 + m 4x 4 If we choose the origin of coordinate axes at centre of
xCM = 1 1 mass, then
m1 + m 2 + m 3 + m 4

=
1(0) + 2(1) + 3(1) + 4(0) 5 1
= = m = 0.5 m ∫ xdm = ∫ ydm = ∫ z dm = 0
1+ 2+ 3+ 4 10 2
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 335

Example 8.7 The linear density of a thin rod of length 1 m

varies as λ = (1 + 2x ), where x is the distance from its one
Position of centre of mass of
end. Find the distance of its centre of mass from this end. symmetrical bodies
Sol. Let the X-axis be along the length of the rod and origin at one Given below are three points which are very important
of its end as shown in figure. regarding the centre of mass of symmetrical bodies
(i) For the bodies symmetrical about both the axes (X or
x Y) or all the three axes (X, Y, Z ), the centre of mass
dx
As, rod is along X-axis, for all points on it Y and Z will be will lie at point of intersection of symmetrical axes.
zero, so y CM = 0 and z CM = 0, i.e. centre of mass will be on There is no need to determine centre of mass.
the rod. Now, consider an element of rod of length dx at a (ii) The bodies which are symmetrical about one axis,
distance x from the origin. centre of mass will lie on that axis. Determine only
Mass of this element, dm = λdx = (1 + 2x )dx that coordinate about which there is symmetry.
1

∫ x (1 + 2x )dx (iii) If an arrangement or body is not symmetrical about

x CM =
∫ x dm = 0 any axis, then determine all the required coordinates.
1
∫ dm ∫ (1 + 2x )dx
Centre of mass of some symmetric bodies are given in a
0
table below
1 Body Figure Position of CM
⎡ x 2 2x 3 ⎤
⎢ + ⎥ Uniform sphere Centre of the sphere
= ⎣2 3 ⎦0
(hollow or solid)
[x + x 2]10 C

⎡ (1) 2 3 ⎤ 1 2
2(1)
⎢ + −0− 0⎥ +
2 3 7
⎥=2 3 =
=⎢ m Uniform circular Centre of the ring
2 ring
⎢ 1 + (1) − 0 − 0 ⎥ 2 12
C
⎢⎣ ⎥⎦

Example 8.8 A straight rod of length L has one of its ends at the
origin and the other at x = L. If the mass per unit length of the Uniform circular Centre of the disc
rod is given by Ax, where A is constant, where is its centre of disc
C
mass?
Sol. Let the mass of an element of length dx of the rod located at
a distance x away from left end be Axdx. Uniform rod C Centre of the rod

Y
A plane square Point of intersection
x
lamina of diagonals
O X C
(0,0) x=0 dx x=L

L
Triangular lamina Point of intersection
The x-coordinate of the centre of mass is given by of the medians
1 1 L
x CM = x dm = x (Axdx )
M∫ M ∫0 C
L
Rectangular cubical Point of intersection
∫ x ⋅ Axdx [Ax 3 /3]L0
2 block of the diagonals
0
= = = L C
L
[Ax 2 /2]L0 3
∫ Axdx
0
1 Cylinder Middle point of the
The y-coordinate is yCM = ∫ y dm = 0
M (hollow or solid) axis of the cylinder
and similarly, z CM = 0 C
⎛2 ⎞ 2
Hence, the centre of mass is at ⎜ L, 0, 0⎟ or at L from one
⎝3 ⎠ 3
end.
336 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

Body Figure Position of CM Example 8.10 A small disc of radius 2 cm is cut from a disc
Cone or pyramid On the axis of the of radius 6 cm. If the distance between their centres is
cone at a distance 3.2 cm, what is the shift in the centre of mass of the disc?
h 3h / 4 from the vertex, Sol. Let radius of complete disc be a and that of small disc be b.
C
h/4 where h is the height Also, let centre of mass now shifts to O 2 at a distance l from
of the cone. original centre.
Uniform Coordinates of
semicircular wire 2R ⎞
C CM = ⎛⎜ 0, ⎟ or a
2R ⎝ π⎠
π O b
(0, 0.64R ) O2 O1
O R X-axis
(0, 0)
l x1
Uniform Coordinates of
semicircular plate or 4R ⎞
disc
C CM = ⎛⎜ 0, ⎟
0, 4R ⎝ 3π ⎠ The position of new centre of mass is given by
3π
(0, 0) O R or (0, 0.42R ) A2x 2 − A1x1 − σπb 2x1
x CM = = (Q x 2 = 0)
A2 − A1 σπa 2 − σπb 2
Example 8.9 Find the position of centre of mass of the where, σ = mass per unit area.
uniform lamina as shown in figure, if small disc of radius a/2 Here, a = 6 cm, b = 2 cm, x1 = 3.2 cm
is cut from disc of radius a.
− σ × π (2)2 × 3.2
Y Hence, x CM =
σ × π × (6)2 − σ × π × (2)2
12.8 π
=− = − 0.4 cm
32π
a
O X Negative sign indicates the left side shift from the centre.

Example 8.11 Two identical rods each of mass m and length

L are connected as shown in the figure. Locate the centre of
mass.
Sol. Here, A1 = area of complete circle = πa 2
A2 = area of small circle
2
⎛a ⎞ πa 2
=π⎜ ⎟ =
⎝ 2⎠ 4
(x1, y1) = coordinates of centre of mass of large circle
= (0, 0) Sol. This system is symmetrical about the X-axis. Hence, we
⎛a ⎞ need to find x CM. Here, we will take coordinates of centre
(x 2, y 2 ) = coordinates of centre of mass of small circle = ⎜ , 0⎟ of mass of rods.
⎝2 ⎠
A1x 1 − A 2x 2 Y
Using x CM = , we get
A1 − A 2
π a 2 ⎛a ⎞ 1 2
πa 2 × 0 − ⎜ ⎟ LO
X
4 ⎝ 2⎠
x CM =
πa2
πa2 − L
4
⎛ 1⎞ For rod 1, mass, m1 = m
−⎜ ⎟
⎝ 8⎠ a
= a=− x-coordinate, x1 = 0
3
⎛ ⎞ 6
⎜ ⎟ For rod 2, mass, m 2 = m
⎝ 4⎠
x-coordinate, x 2 = L /2
and yCM = 0 as y1 and y 2 both are zero.Therefore, coordinates
⎛ a ⎞ m1x1 + m 2x 2
of CM of the lamina as shown in figure are ⎜ − , 0⎟ . ∴ x CM =
⎝ 6 ⎠ m1 + m 2
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 337

L L Sol. Distance OC of the centre of mass from the centre,

m × 0+m × m
x CM = 2 = 2 =L Y
m +m 2m 4
C
yCM
Similarly, y CM = 0
⎛L ⎞ π/4 X
∴ Centre of mass = ⎜ , 0⎟ O xCM
⎝4 ⎠
r sin π / 4 2 2r
OC = =
Example 8.12 Find the coordinates of centre of mass of a π/4 π
quarter ring of radius r placed in the first quadrant of a ⎛ 2r 2r ⎞
cartesian coordinate system with centre at origin. ∴ Coordinates of centre of mass (x CM, y CM ) are ⎜ , ⎟ .
⎝ π π⎠

CHECK POINT 8.1

1. Two bodies of masses 1 kg and 2 kg are lying in xy-plane at (a) (0.8, 0.6) m (b) (0.6, 0.8) m
(−1, 2) and (2, 4), respectively. What are the coordinates of (c) (0.4, 0.4) m (d) (0.5, 0.6) m
the centre of mass? 7. Centre of mass of three particles of masses 1 kg, 2 kg and
10
(a) ⎛⎜1, ⎞⎟ (b) (1, 0) 3 kg lies at the point (1, 2, 3) and centre of mass of another
⎝ 3⎠ system of particles of total mass 3 kg lies at the point
(c) (0, 1) (d) None of these (−1 , 3 , − 2). Where should we put a particle of mass 5 kg, so
2. The centre of mass of a system of two particles divides the that the centre of mass of the entire system lies at the
distance between them centre of mass of first system?
(a) in inverse ratio of square of masses of particles (a) (0, 0, 0) (b) (1, 3, 2)
(b) in direct ratio of square of masses of particles (c) (−1 , 2, 3) (d) None of these
(c) in inverse ratio of masses of particles 8. Three identical spheres, each of mass 1 kg are placed
(d) in direct ratio of masses of particles touching each other with their centres on a straight line.
3. In carbon monoxide molecules, the carbon and the oxygen Their centres are marked P, Q and R, respectively. The
distance of centre of mass of the system from P is
atoms are separated by distance 1.2 × 10 −10 m. The distance
PQ + PR + QR PQ + PR
of the centre of mass from the carbon atom is (a) (b)
3 3
(a) 0.48 × 10−10 m (b) 0.51 × 10−10 m
PQ + QR
(c) 0.56 × 10−10 m (d) 0.69 × 10−10 m (c) (d) None of the above
3
4. The centre of mass of a system of particles does not depend
on 9. Four rods AB, BC, CD and DA have masses m, 2 m, 3 m and
(a) masses of the particles 4m, respectively. The centre of mass of all the four rods lies
(b) internal forces on the particles
D C
(c) position of the particles
(d) relative distance between the particles 1 2

5. All the particles of a body are situated at a distance R from O

the origin. The distance of centre of mass of the body from 3 4
the origin is A B
(a) = R (b) ≤ R (c) > R (d) ≥ R
(a) in region 1 (b) in region 2
6. Three point masses m1 , m2 and m3 are placed at the corners
(c) in region 3 (d) at O
of a thin massless rectangular sheet (1.2 m × 1 m) as shown.
Centre of mass will be located at the point 10. The linear density of a rod of length L varies as λ = A + Bx,
where x is the distance from one of its ends.
The position of centre of mass will be
m3 = 2.4 kg L ⎛ 3A + BL ⎞ L ⎛ 3A + 2BL ⎞
C (a) ⎜ ⎟ (b) ⎜ ⎟
2 ⎝ 2A + 2BL ⎠ 3 ⎝ 2A + BL ⎠
L 2A + 3BL ⎞ L 2A + 3BL ⎞
1m (c) ⎛⎜ ⎟ (d) ⎛⎜ ⎟
m1 = 1.6 kg
5 ⎝ A + 3BL ⎠ 3 ⎝ 3A + 2BL ⎠
A 1.2 m B m2 = 2 kg
338 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

11. Three rods of the same mass are placed as shown in the 14. Four particles of masses m1 = 2m, m2 = 4 m, m3 = m and m4
figure. What will be the coordinate of centre of mass of the are placed at four corners of a square. What should be the
system? value of m4 , so that the centre of mass of all the four
Y
particles are exactly at the centre of the square?
m4 m3
(0, a)

O (a, 0) X m1 m2

a a⎞ a a ⎞ 2a 2a a a⎞ (a) 2m (b) 8 m
(a) ⎛⎜ , ⎟ (b) ⎛⎜ , ⎟ (c) , (d) ⎛⎜ , ⎟ (c) 6m (d) None of these
⎝2 2⎠ ⎝ 2 2⎠ 3 3 ⎝3 3⎠
12. Figure shows a composite system of two uniform rods of 15. A square plate of side 20 cm has uniform thickness and
lengths as indicated. Then, the coordinates of the centre of density. A circular part of diameter 8 cm is cut out
mass of the system of rods are symmetrically as shown in figure. The position of centre of
y mass of the remaining portion is

2L

O O1
x
O L

L 2L L 2L ⎞
(a) ⎛⎜ , ⎞⎟ (b) ⎛⎜ , ⎟
⎝2 3⎠ ⎝4 3⎠ (a) at O1
L 2L L L⎞ (b) at O
(c) ⎛⎜ , ⎞⎟ (d) ⎛⎜ , ⎟
⎝6 3⎠ ⎝6 3⎠ (c) 0.54 cm from O on the left hand side
(d) None of the above
13. A uniform metal rod of length 1 m is bent at 90°, so as to
form two arms of equal length. The centre of mass of this 16. A uniform metal disc of radius R is taken and out of it a disc
bent rod is of diameter R is cut-off from the end. The centre of mass of
the remaining part will be
⎛ 1 ⎞
(a) on the bisector of the angle, ⎜ ⎟ m from vertex R
⎝ 2⎠ (a) from the centre
4
⎛ 1 ⎞
(b) on the bisector of angle, ⎜ ⎟ m from vertex R
⎝ 2 2⎠ (b) from the centre
3
1
(c) on the bisector of the angle, ⎛⎜ ⎞⎟ m from vertex R
⎝ 2⎠ (c) from the centre
5
⎛ 1 ⎞
(d) on the bisector of the angle, ⎜ ⎟ m from vertex R
⎝ 4 2⎠ (d) from the centre
6

MOTION OF CENTRE OF MASS

Let us consider the motion of a system of n particles of Acceleration of centre of mass,
individual masses m1, m 2, ..., mn and total mass M. It is
assumed that no mass enters or leaves the system during m1a1 + m 2 a 2 + K + mn an
a CM = …(ii)
its motion, so that M remains constant. Then, M
velocity of centre of mass, n
m v + m 2 v 2 + .. + mn v n Σ m i ai
v CM = 1 1 …(i) i =1
M or aCM =
M
n
Σ mi v i Further, in accordance with Newton’s second law of
i =1
or v CM = motion, F = m a. Hence, Eq. (ii) can be written as
M
FCM = F1 + F2 + ... + Fn
Differentiating Eq. (i) w.r.t. t, we get
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 339

Force on centre of mass, Example 8.14 Find the velocity of centre of mass of the
system shown in the figure.
n
FCM = Σ Fi …(iii) y
i =1 1 kg 2 ms−1

From expression (iii), it is clear that the centre of mass of x 2 kg

30°
a system of particles moves as though it is a particle
of mass equal to that of the whole system with all the 2 ms−1
external forces acting directly on it.
There are some important points related to motion of Sol. Here, m1 = 1 kg, v1 = 2i$,
centre of mass m 2 = 2 kg, v 2 = 2 cos 30° i$ − 2 sin 30° j$
(i) If a system consists of more than one particle (or m v + m 2v 2
v CM = 1 1
bodies) and net external force on the system in a m1 + m 2
particular direction is zero with centre of mass at 1 × 2i$ + 2(2 cos 30° i$ − 2 sin 30° $j )
rest. Then, the centre of mass will not move along =
1+ 2
that particular direction even though some particles
(or bodies) of the system may move along that direction. 2i + 2 3i − 2j ⎛ 2 + 2 3 ⎞ $ 2 $
$ $ $
v CM = =⎜ ⎟i− j
(ii) Motion of centre of mass of a system or object is not 3 ⎝ 3 ⎠ 3
affected by any of internal forces as they always Example 8.15 Two particles of masses 2 kg and 4 kg are
make action-reaction pairs, so their net contribution approaching each other with acceleration 1 ms −2 and
to acceleration of centre of mass is zero. 2 ms −2 respectively, on a smooth horizontal surface. Find
(iii) If two particles of masses m1 and m 2 are placed on a the acceleration of centre of mass of the system.
smooth surface separated by distance r and they Sol. The acceleration of centre of mass of the system,
move towards each other due to the mutual m a + m 2a 2 2 × 1 − 4 × 2
attractive force, then a CM = 1 1 = = −1ms−2
m1 + m 2 (2 + 4)
(a) In the absence of any external force, the (Negative sign indicates that direction of 4 kg is opposite
acceleration of CM is zero, irrespective of the to that of 2 kg)
individual acceleration of particles. Since, |m 2a 2| > |m1a1|, so the direction of acceleration of centre
(b) In the absence of any external force, the of mass will be directed towards m1.
velocity of CM is also constant. Example 8.16 Two particles of masses m1 and m 2 are
(c) If initially the centre of mass is at rest, projected from the top of a tower. The particle m1 is
i.e. v CM = 0 and the external force is absent, projected vertically downward with speed u and m 2 is
i.e. Fext = 0, the location of CM is fixed. projected horizontally with same speed. Find acceleration of
(d) Under the action of external forces, the CM CM of system of particles by neglecting the effect of air
resistance.
moves just as all the mass were concentrated at
that point, Sol. As effect of air is neglected, therefore the only force acting
on the particles is the gravitational force in downward
i.e. ΣFext = Ma ext direction.
Example 8.13 Two blocks of masses 5 kg and 2 kg are Let the point of projection is taken as origin and downward
placed on a frictionless surface and connected by a spring. direction as negative Y-axis, then
An external kick gives a velocity of 14 ms −1 to the heavier acceleration of 1st point mass, a1 = − g $j
block in the direction of lighter one. Calculate the velocity
gained by the centre of mass. acceleration of 2nd point mass, a2 = − g $j

Sol. Given, m1 = 5 kg, m 2 = 2 kg, v1 = 14 ms−1 and v 2 = 0 ∴ aCM =

m1a1 + m 2a 2 m1(− g $j) + m 2 (− g $j)
= = − g $j
m1v1 + m 2v 2 m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2
∴ v CM =
m1 + m 2 i.e. Acceleration of CM is equal to acceleration due to gravity
and is in downward direction.
5 × 14 + 2 × 0
= Note If large number of particles are projected under the effect of
5+2
gravity only in different directions, then acceleration of CM is
70
= = 10 ms −1 in the direction of lighter one. equal to the acceleration due to gravity irrespective of
7 directions of projection of particles.
340 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

Example 8.17 Two particles of masses 2m and 3m separated m AaA + m B aB

Now, aCM =
by distance d are placed on a smooth surface. They move m A + mB
towards each other due to mutual attractive force. Find (i)
2 (a ) − 1 (a ) a g
acceleration of CM, (ii) velocity of CM when separation = = = (downwards)
between particles becomes d /3 and (iii) at what distance 1+ 2 3 9
from the initial position of mass 2m will the particles collide?
Example 8.19 Two particles A and B of masses 1 kg and
Sol. The given situation is shown below. 2 kg respectively are projected in the directions as shown in
3m
figure with speeds u A = 200 ms −1 and uB = 50 ms −1.
2m F F
Initially, they were 90 m apart. Find the maximum height
d Smooth attained by the centre of mass of the particles. Assume
A B acceleration due to gravity to be constant.
(i) In the absence of any external force, the acceleration of (Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
CM is zero, B
i.e. Fext = 0 ⇒ a CM = 0
uB
(ii) Initially, the particles are at rest, i.e. v1 = v 2 = 0, therefore
90 m
v CM = 0. Since Fext = 0, the velocity of CM is constant and uA
hence, v CM is always zero whatever be the separation
between the particles.
A
(iii) The position of CM will be
2m × 0 + 3m × d 3d Sol. Using m ArA = m BrB or 1 (rA) = 2 (rB )
x CM = =
2m + 3m 5 or rA = 2rB …(i)
CM and rA + rB = 90 m …(ii)
A B
Solving these two equations, we get
3d/5 rA = 60 m and rB = 30 m
i.e. CM is at height 60 m from the ground at time t = 0.
Since, the CM is at rest and its position is fixed, hence
m a + m B aB
particles will meet at CM, i.e. at distance 3d / 5 from A. Further, aCM = A A = g = 10 ms −2 (downwards)
m A + mB
Example 8.18 In the arrangement shown in figure,
As, aA = aB = g (downwards)
m A = 2 kg and m B = 1 kg. String is light and inextensible.
Find the acceleration of centre of mass of both the blocks. m u + m B uB
u CM = A A
Neglect friction everywhere. m A + mB
1 (200) − 2 (50) 100
= = ms −1 (upwards)
1+ 2 3
Let h be the height attained by CM beyond 60 m.
Using v 2CM = uCM
2
+ 2aCMh
A 2
⎛100⎞
or 0=⎜ ⎟ − (2) (10) h
B ⎝ 3 ⎠
(100)2
Sol. Net pulling force on the system = (m A − m B ) g or h= = 55.56 m
180
= (2 − 1) g = g
Therefore, maximum height attained by the centre of mass,
H = 60 + 55.56
= 115.56 m

a A
Linear momentum of a
B a
system of particles
For a system of n-particles, total linear momentum is
Total mass being pulled = m A + m B = 3 kg vector sum of linear momenta of individual particles,
Net pulling force g where linear momentum of an individual particle is
∴ a= = product of its mass and velocity (p = mv ).
Total mass 3
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 341

So, linear momentum of system is given by Here, rate of change of momentum is zero, i.e. momentum
of system remains constant.
p = p1 + p 2 + p 3 +… + pn
So, p initial = p final
or p = m1v 1 + m 2 v 2 + m 3 v 3 + ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ +mn v n …(i) Above expression represents the law of conservation of
(Q p = mv ) linear momentum for system of particles.
From the concept of centre of mass, we know that, Example 8.20 A man of mass m1 is standing on a platform of
m1v 1 + m 2 v 2 + m 3 v 3 + ⋅ ⋅ ⋅ + mn v n = M v CM …(ii) mass m 2 kept on a smooth horizontal surface. The man
starts moving on the platform with a velocity v r relative to
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get the platform. Find the recoil velocity of platform.
Total linear momentum, p = M v CM …(iii) Sol. Absolute velocity of man = vr − v , where v = recoil velocity
of platform. Taking the platform and the man as a system, net
Thus, the total momentum of a system of particles is external force on the system in horizontal direction is zero.
equal to the product of the total mass and velocity of Initially, both the man and the platform were at rest, hence
its centre of mass. the linear momentum of the system remains constant.
Note Relation between momentum and kinetic energy,
p = 2 mK vr − v

v
Conservation of linear momentum for
system of particles Hence, 0 = m1(vr − v ) − m 2v ⇒ v =
m1vr
According to law of conservation of linear momentum, m1 + m 2
total linear momentum of a system of particles remains
Example 8.21 A wooden plank of mass 20 kg is resting on a
constant or conserved in the absence of any external force. smooth horizontal floor as shown in figure. A man of mass
Total linear momentum of system of particles, 60 kg starts moving from one end of the plank to the other
p = Mv CM end. The length of the plank is 10 m. Find the displacement
of the plank over the floor when the man reaches the other
Differentiating both sides w.r.t. t, we get end of the plank.
dp d
= (Mv CM )
dt dt
dv
= M CM
dt
dv CM 10 m
Here, = a CM, acceleration of centre of mass.
dt
Sol. Here, the system is man + plank. Net force on this system
dp in horizontal direction is zero and initially the centre of mass
∴ = Ma CM
dt of the system is at rest. Therefore, the centre of mass does not
Here, from Newton’s second law of motion, Ma CM will be move in horizontal direction.
equal to the external force. Let x be the displacement of the plank. Assuming the origin,
i.e. x = 0 at the position as shown in figure.
dp
∴ = Fext
dt
∴ If Fext = 0, then
dp
= 0 or p = constant 10
CM
dt 2 x
∴ M v CM = constant x=0 10 m Initial position

v CM = constant
So, we can conclude that, if net external force on the
system is zero, the linear momentum of the system is
constant, hence centre of mass will move with
x 10 − x Final position
constant velocity.
342 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

As, the centre of mass will not move in horizontal direction On solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
(X-axis). Therefore, for centre of mass to remain stationary,
2Mg (R − r ) m 2Mg (R − r )
xi = x f v1 = and v 2 =
M +m M M +m
⎛10⎞ ⎛10 ⎞
60 (0) + 20 ⎜ ⎟ 60 (10 − x ) + 20 ⎜ − x⎟
⎝2⎠ ⎝2 ⎠ Example 8.23 A disc of mass 100 g is kept floating
=
60 + 20 60 + 20 horizontally in air by firing bullets, each of mass 5 g with the
⎛10 ⎞ same velocity at the same rate of 10 bullets per second. The
6(10 − x ) + 2 ⎜ − x⎟ bullets rebound with the same speed in opposite direction.
5 ⎝2 ⎠
or = Find the velocity of each bullet at the time of impact.
4 8
Sol. From the law of conservation of momentum,
60 − 6x + 10 − 2x
= rate of change in momentum of bullets = weight of disc
8
2m ʹvn = mg
or 5 = 30 − 3x + 5 − x
mg 100 × 980
⇒ 4x = 30 ∴ v= =
2m ʹn 2 × 5 × 10
30
⇒ x= m = 980 cm/s
4
⇒ x = 7.5 m Example 8.24 A plank of mass 5 kg is placed on a frictionless
Note The centre of mass of the plank lies at its centre. horizontal plane as shown in figure. Further, a block of mass
1 kg is placed over the plank. A massless spring of natural
Example 8.22 A block of mass M with a semi-circular track length 2 m is fixed to the plank by its one end. The other
of radius R rests on a smooth floor. A sphere of mass m and end of spring is compressed by the block by half of spring’s
radius r is released from rest at point A. Find the velocity of natural length. The system is now released from the rest.
sphere and track when the sphere reaches at B. What is the velocity of the plank when block leaves the
plank ? (The stiffness constant of spring is 100 Nm −1)
m O
A r 1 kg
R
5 kg
M B 4m
Smooth
Sol. Let the velocities of the block and the plank, when the
block leaves the spring, be u and v, respectively.
Sol. According to the question,
1 1 1
By conservation of energy, kx 2 = mu 2 + Mv 2
A O 2 2 2
(where, M = mass of the plank, m = mass of the block)
R–r
v2 ⇒ 100 = u 2 + 5v 2 K (i)
v1
B By conservation of momentum,
mu + Mv = 0 ⇒ u = − 5v K (ii)
When the sphere reaches at point B Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
Let v1 = velocity of m 30 v 2 = 100
v 2 = velocity of M 10
Using conservation of momentum in the horizontal direction, ⇒ v= ms −1
3
mv1 = Mv 2 …(i)
From this moment until block falls, both plank and block keep
Applying the conservation of energy between A and B, their velocity constant.
1
mg (R − r ) = (mv12 + Mv 22 ) …(ii)
2 Thus, when block falls, velocity of plank = 10 /3 ms −1.
CHECK POINT 8.2
1. A body falling vertically downwards under gravity breaks in 2 ms−1 2 ms−1
two parts of unequal masses. The centre of mass of the two
4 kg 4 kg
parts taken together shifts horizontally towards
(a) heavier piece Origin (4.5 m, 0)
(b) lighter piece
At t = 0 , the position of blocks are shown, then the
(c) does not shift horizontally coordinates of centre of mass t = 3 s will be
(d) depends on the vertical velocity at the time of breaking (a) (1, 0) (b) (3, 0) (c) (5, 0) (d) (2.25, 0)
2. Two balls are thrown simultaneously in air. The 10. Two particles of equal mass have coordinates (4 m, 4m, 6m)
acceleration of the centre of mass of the two balls in air and (6m, 2m, 8m). Of these, one particle has a velocity
(a) depends on the direction of the motion of the balls
v1 = (2 $i) ms −1 and another particle has velocity v 2 = (2$j) ms −1
(b) depends on the masses of the two balls
at time t = 0. The coordinates of their centre of mass at time
(c) depends on the speeds of two balls
t = 1 s will be
(d) is equal to g
(a) (4m, 4m, 7m) (b) (5m, 4m, 7m)
3. Consider a system of two identical particles. One of the (c) (2m, 4m, 6m) (d) (4m, 5m, 4m)
particles is at rest and the other has an acceleration a. The
centre of mass has an acceleration 11. An isolated particle of mass m is moving in horizontal
1 xy-plane, along the X-axis, at a certain height above the
(a) zero (b) a (c) a (d) 2a ground. It suddenly explodes into two fragments of masses
2 m 3m
and . An instant later, the smaller fragment is at
4. Two balls of equal mass are projected from a tower 4 4
simultaneously with equal speeds, one at angle θ above the y = + 15 cm. The larger fragment at this instant is at
horizontal and the other at the same angle θ below the (a) y = − 5cm (b) y = + 20 cm
horizontal. The path of the centre of mass of the two balls is (c) y = + 5cm (d) y = − 20 cm
(a) a vertical straight line
(b) a horizontal straight line 12. Two particles A and B initially at rest, move towards each
(c) a straight line at angle α (< θ) with horizontal
other under a mutual force of attraction. At the instant,
when the speed of A is v and the speed of B is 2v, the speed
(d) a parabola
of centre of mass of the system is
5. A ball kept in a closed box moves in the box making (a) zero (b) v (c) 1.5 v (d) 3v
collisions with the walls. The box is kept on a smooth
surface. The velocity of the centre of mass 13. A man of mass m is standing on a plank of equal mass m
resting on a smooth horizontal surface. The man starts
(a) of the box remains constant
moving on the plank with speed u relative to the plank.
(b) of the box plus the ball system remains constant
The speed of the man relative to the ground is
(c) of the ball remains constant
m
(d) of the ball relative to the box remains constant
6. Two blocks of masses 10 kg and 4 kg are connected by a
spring of negligible mass and placed on a frictionless
horizontal surface. An impulse gives a velocity of 14 ms −1 to
the heavier block in the direction of the
u u
lighter block. The velocity of the centre of mass is (a) 2u (b) (c) zero (d)
2 4
(a) 30 ms −1 (b) 20 ms −1
(c) 10 ms −1 (d) 5 ms −1 14. A shell of mass m is moving horizontally with velocity v 0
7. A metre stick is placed vertically at the origin on a and collides with the wedge of mass M just above point A as
frictionless surface. A gentle push in + x-direction is given to shown in the figure. As a consequence, wedge starts to
the top most point of the rod. When it has fallen move towards left and the shell returns with a velocity in
completely, the x-coordinate of centre of rod is at xy-plane. The principle of conservation of momentum can
(a) origin (b) − 0.5 m (c) −1 m (d) + 0.5 m be applied for C
8. Two bodies having masses m1 and m2 and velocities v1 and
v 2 collide and form a composite system. If
m1 v1 + m2v 2 = 0 (m1 ≠ m2), the velocity of composite system
M
will be
(a) v1 − v2 (b) v1 + v2 v0 m
v + v2 θ
(c) 1 (d) zero
2 B A
9. Blocks A and B are resting on a smooth horizontal surface (a) system (m + M) along any direction
given equal speeds of 2 ms −1 in opposite sense as shown in (b) system (m + M) vertically
the figure. (c) system (m + M) horizontally
(d) None of the above
344 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

15. A stationary bomb explodes into two parts of masses 3 kg 17. A shell is fired from cannon with velocity v at an angle θ
and 1 kg. The total kinetic energy of the two parts after with the horizontal direction. At the highest point in its
explosion is 2400 J. The kinetic energy of the smaller part is
path, it explodes into two pieces of equal mass. One of the
(a) 600 J (b) 1800 J (c) 1200 J (d) 2160 J
pieces retraces its path to the cannon and the speed (in
16. An object of mass 3m splits into three equal fragments. Two ms −1) of the other piece immediately after the explosion is
fragments have velocities v $j and v $i. The velocity of the (a) 3v cos θ (b) 2v cos θ
third fragment is 3 3
(c) v cos θ (d) v cos θ
v($i + $j) 2 2
(a) v($j − $i) (b) v($i − $j) (c) − v($i + $j) (d)
2

COLLISION
A collision is an isolated event in which two or more Types of collisions
colliding bodies exert strong forces on each other for a Collision between two bodies may be classified in two ways
relatively short time. For a collision to take place, the
Elastic and inelastic collision A collision is said to be
actual physical contact is not necessary.
elastic, if along with linear momentum, kinetic energy
Total linear momentum is conserved in all collisions, also remains conserved before and after collision.
i.e. the initial momentum of the system is equal to final
A collision is said to be inelastic, if only linear momentum
momentum of the system.
remains conserved but not the kinetic energy.
∴ Total momentum before collision = Total momentum after
The collision is said to be perfectly inelastic, if
collision
approaching particles permanently stick to each other and
m1v 1 + m 2v 2 = m1v 1ʹ + m 2v 2ʹ
move with common velocity.
In the absence of any dissipative forces, the mechanical Head on and oblique collision If velocity vectors of the
energy of the system will also remain conserved, i.e. colliding bodies are directed along the line of impact, the
impact is called as direct or head on collision.
1 1 1 1
m v 2 + m v 2 = m v ʹ2 + m 2v 2ʹ 2 And if velocity vectors of both or any of the bodies are not
2 1 1 2 2 2 2 1 1 2 along the line of impact, the impact is called oblique
collision.
Example 8.25 Two blocks A and B of equal mass m =1 kg
are lying on a smooth horizontal surface as shown in figure.
A spring of force constant k = 200 Nm −1 is fixed at one end
Head on elastic collision
of block A. Block B collides with block A with velocity Let the two balls of masses m1 and m 2 collide with each
v 0 = 2 ms −1. Find the maximum compression of the spring. other elastically with velocities v 1 and v 2 in the directions
2 ms−1 shown in figure below. Their velocities become v 1ʹ and v 2ʹ
after the collision along the same line.
B A
m2 m1
v2 v1
Sol. At maximum compression (x m ), velocity of both the blocks
is same, say v. Applying conservation of linear momentum,
we have (a) Before collision
(m A + m B ) v = m Bv 0 m2 m1
v'2 v1'
or (1 + 1) v = (1) v 0
v0 2
or = = 1 ms −1
v= (b) After collision
2 2
Fig. 8.3 Head on elastic collision
Using conservation of mechanical energy, we have
1 1 1 Applying law of conservation of linear momentum, we get
m Bv 02 = (m A + m B ) v 2 + kx m2
2 2 2 m1v 1 + m 2v 2 = m1v 1ʹ + m 2v 2ʹ …(i)
Substituting the given values in above equation, we get In an elastic collision, kinetic energy before and after
1 1 1 collision is also conserved. Hence,
× (1) × (2)2 = × (1 + 1) × (1)2 + × (200) × x m2
2 2 2
1 1 1 1
or x m = 0.1 m = 10 cm m1v 12 + m 2v 22 = m1v 1ʹ2 + m 2v 2ʹ 2 …(ii)
2 2 2 2
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 345

Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii) for v 1ʹ and v 2ʹ , we get i.e. The second particle (of mass 2m) comes to rest while the
first (of mass m) moves with velocity 3v in the direction
⎛ m − m2 ⎞ ⎛ 2m 2 ⎞ shown in figure given above.
v 1ʹ = ⎜ 1 ⎟ v1 + ⎜ ⎟ v2 …(iii)
⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ ⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ Head on inelastic collision
⎛ m − m1 ⎞ ⎛ 2m1 ⎞ In an inelastic collision, due to permanent deformation
and v 2ʹ = ⎜ 2 ⎟ v2 + ⎜ ⎟ v1 …(iv) the kinetic energy of the particles no longer remains
⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ ⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠
conserved. However, in the absence of external forces, law
Special cases of head on elastic collision of conservation of linear momentum still holds good.
(i) If m1 = m 2, then from Eqs. (iii) and (iv), we can see that
v2 v1
m2 m1
v 1ʹ = v 2 and v 2ʹ = v 1
i.e. When two particles of equal mass collide Before collision
elastically in head on condition, they exchange their v'2 v'1
m2 m1
velocities.
+ ve
m
(ii) If m1 > > m 2 and v 1 = 0, then 2 ≈ 0 After collision
m1 Fig. 8.4 Head on inelastic collision
⎛ m ⎞
With these two substitutions ⎜ v 1 = 0 and 2 = 0 ⎟ , Suppose the velocities of two particles of masses m1 and
⎝ m1 ⎠
m 2 before collision be v 1 and v 2 in the directions as shown
we get the following two results, in figure. Let v 1ʹ and v 2ʹ be their velocities after
v 1ʹ ≈ 0 and v 2ʹ ≈ − v 2 collision. The law of conservation of linear momentum
i.e. If a lighter particle collides with a heavier gives
particle at rest, then heavier particle remains at rest m1v 1 + m 2v 2 = m1v 1ʹ + m 2v 2ʹ …(i)
but lighter particle bounces back with same velocity.
v'
(iii) If m 2 > > m1 and v 1 = 0
With the substitution m1 /m 2 ≈ 0 and v 1 = 0, we get
the results, v 1ʹ ≈ 2v 2 and v 2ʹ ≈ v 2
i.e. If a heavier particle collides with a lighter Fig. 8.5 After inelastic collision
particle at rest, then lighter particle moves with
twice the velocity of heavier particle while velocity Collision is said to be perfectly inelastic, if both the
of heavier particle remains same. particles stick together after collision and move with same
Example 8.26 Two particles of masses m and 2m moving in velocity, say v ʹ as shown in figure. In this case, Eq. (i) can be
opposite directions collide elastically with velocities v and 2v. written as
Find their velocities after collision. m1v 1 + m 2v 2 = (m1 + m 2 )v ʹ
Sol. Here, v1 = − v, v 2 = 2v, m1 = m and m 2 = 2m . m v + m 2v 2
or vʹ = 1 1 …(ii)
2v m1 + m 2
2m v
m +ve
Loss in kinetic energy,
Substituting these values in Eqs. (iii) and (iv), we get ⎛1 1 ⎞ 1
ΔK = ⎜ m1v 12 + m 2v 22 ⎟ − (m1 + m 2 ) v ʹ 2
⎛ m − 2m ⎞ ⎛ 4m ⎞ ⎝2 2 ⎠ 2
v1ʹ = ⎜ ⎟ (− v ) + ⎜ ⎟ (2v ) 2
⎝ m + 2m ⎠ ⎝ m + 2m ⎠ ⎛ m v + m 2v 2 ⎞
⎛1 1 ⎞ 1
v 8v = ⎜ m1v 12 + m 2v 22 ⎟ − (m1 + m 2 ) ⎜ 1 1 ⎟
or v1ʹ = + = 3v ⎝2 2 ⎠ 2 ⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠
3 3
Solving above equation, we get
⎛ 2m − m ⎞ ⎛ 2m ⎞
and v 2ʹ = ⎜ ⎟ (2v ) + ⎜ ⎟ (− v )
⎝ 2m + m ⎠ ⎝ m + 2m ⎠ 1 ⎛ m1m 2 ⎞ 2
ΔK = ⎜ ⎟ (v − v 2 )
or
2 2
v 2ʹ = v − v = 0
2 ⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ 1
3 3
3v which is positive. Therefore, some kinetic energy is
2m v2ʹ = 0 m always lost in an inelastic collision.
346 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

Example 8.27 A simple pendulum of length 1 m has a 10−2 × 1 + 10−3 × 0 = (10−2 + 10−3 ) v
wooden bob of mass 1 kg. It is struck by a bullet of mass 10−2 10
10 −2 kg moving with a speed of 2 × 10 2 ms −1. The bullet or v= −2
= ms −1
1.1 × 10 11
gets embedded into the bob. Obtain the height to which the
bob rises before swinging back. v 2 (10/11)2
Now, h= = = 4.1 × 10−2 m
Sol. Applying principle of conservation of linear momentum, 2g 2 ×10
mu = (M + m ) v ⇒ 10−2 × (2 × 102 ) = (1 + 0.01) v Example 8.30 An object of mass 40 kg having velocity
⇒ v=
2
ms −1
4 ms −1 collides with another object of mass 60 kg having
1.01 velocity 2 ms −1. What is the loss of energy during this
process, if it is a perfectly inelastic collision?
Sol. Given, m1 = 40 kg, m 2 = 60 kg, v1 = 4 ms −1, v 2 = 2 ms −1
1⎛ m m ⎞ 1 ⎛ 40 × 60⎞
∴ ΔK = ⎜ 1 2 ⎟ (v1 − v 2 )2 = ⎜ 2
⎟ (4 − 2) = 48 J
2 ⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ 2 ⎝ 40 + 60⎠
(M + m )

v
h Example 8.31 A particle of mass m moving with speed u
m collides perfectly inelastically with another particle of mass
M
u 2m at rest. Find loss of kinetic energy of system in the
Kinetic energy of the block with bullet in it is converted into collision.
potential energy as it rises through a height h.
Sol. Let velocity of system (m + 2m ) of particles after collision be v.
1
∴ (M + m ) v 2 = (M + m ) gh u
2 From law of conservation of momentum, mu = 3mv ⇒ v =
2 3
v2 ⎛ 2 ⎞ 1 Now, loss of kinetic energy = Ki − K f
⇒ h= =⎜ ⎟ × = 0.2 m
2g ⎝1.01⎠ 2 × 9.8 2
1 1 ⎛ u⎞
⇒ ΔK = mu 2 − (3m ) ⎜ ⎟
Example 8.28 A body falling on the ground from a height of 2 2 ⎝ 3⎠
10 m, rebounds to a height 2.5 m, calculate 1 1
⇒ ΔK = mu 2 − mu 2
(i) the percentage loss in kinetic energy 2 6
(ii) ratio of the velocities of the body just before and just after 1 2
⇒ ΔK = mu
the collision. 3
Sol. Let v1 and v 2 be the velocities of the body just before and
Example 8.32 A railway carriage of mass 8000 kg moving
just after the collision. with on speed of 54 km h −1 collides with an another
1
KE1 = mv12 = mgh1 …(i) stationary carriage of same mass. Determine the loss in
2 kinetic energy in this process.
1
and KE 2 = mv 22 = mgh 2 …(ii) Sol. Given, m1 = 8000 kg, v1 = 54 km h−1
2
5
mg (h1 − h 2 ) = 54 × ms−1 = 15 ms−1
(i) Percentage loss in kinetic energy = × 100 18
mgh1
10 − 2.5 m 2 = 8000 kg, v 2 = 0
= × 100 = 75% From law of conservation of momentum,
10
m1v1 + m 2v 2 = (m1 + m 2 )v
v12 h1 10 v
(ii) = = = 4 ⇒ 1 =2 m1v1
v 22 h 2 2.5 v2 v= (Q v 2 = 0)
m1 + m 2
Example 8.29 A pendulum bob of mass 10 −2 kg is raised to a 8000 × 15
height 5 × 10 −2 m and then released. At the bottom of its = = 7.5 ms −1
8000 + 8000
swing, it picks up a mass 10 −3 kg. To what height will the
Loss of kinetic energy = KE before collision − KE after collision
combined mass rise? (Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
1 1
Sol. Velocity of pendulum bob in mean position, = m1v12 − (m1 + m 2 ) v 2
2 2
v1 = 2gh = 2 × 10 × 5 × 10−2 = 1 ms −1 1 1
= × 8000 × (15)2 − (8000 + 8000)(7.5)2
When the bob picks up a mass 10−3 kg at the bottom, then by 2 2
conservation of linear momentum, the velocity of coalesced = 400 × 225 − 8000 × 56.25
mass is given by
= 450 kJ
m1v1 + m 2v 2 = (m1 + m 2) v
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 347

Newton’s law of restitution Example 8.33 A ball is moving with velocity 2 ms −1 towards
a heavy wall moving towards the ball with speed 1 ms −1 as
When two objects are in direct (head on) impact, the speed shown in figure. Assuming collision to be elastic, find the
with which they separate after impact is usually less than velocity of ball immediately after the collision.
or equal to their speed of approach before impact.
According to Newton’s law of restitution, the ratio of
2 ms−1 1 ms−1
relative velocity of separation after collision to relative
velocity of approach before collision remains constant.
Relative velocity of separation (after collision)
e=
Relative velocity of approach (before collision) Sol. The speed of wall will not change after the collision. So, let
v be the velocity of the ball after collision in the direction as
The ratio e is called the coefficient of restitution and is shown in figure. Since, collision is elastic (e = 1),
constant for two particular objects.
v − v1
e= 2
u1 − u 2 2 ms−1 1 ms−1 v 1 ms−1

where, u1 and u 2 are velocities of two bodies before

collision and v 1 and v 2 are their velocities after collision.
For elastic collision, e = 1and for inelastic collision, Before collision After collision
0 < e < 1 while for perfectly inelastic collision, e = 0. separation speed = approach speed
Solving the following equations, or v − 1 = 2 + 1 or v = 4 ms−1
m1u1 + m 2u 2 = m1v 1 + m 2v 2 and v 2 − v 1 = e (u1 − u 2 ),
we get
m − em 2 (1 + e )m 2 Example 8.34 A ball of mass 2 kg moving with speed 5 ms −1
v1 = 1 u1 + u2 collides directly with another ball of mass 3 kg moving in the
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2 same direction with speed 4 ms −1. The coefficient of
m 2 − em1 (1 + e )m1 restitution is 2/3. Find their velocities after collision.
and v2 = u2 + u1 Sol. Denoting the first ball by A and the second ball by B,
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2
velocities immediately before and after the impact are shown
Putting e = 1, we will get formulae of v 1 and v 2 for an in the figure.
uA = 5 ms−1 uB = 4 ms−1 vA vB
elastic collision.
Putting e = 0, we will get formulae of v 1 and v 2 for A B A B
perfectly inelastic collision. Immediately before Immediately after
impact starts impact ends
The loss in kinetic energy during an inelastic collision is
Applying principle of conservation of momentum, we have
1 m1m 2
ΔE = (1 − e 2 ) (u1 − u 2 ) 2 m BvB + m Av A = m AuA + m BuB
2 m1 + m 2 ⇒ 3 vB + 2 v A = 2 × 5 + 3 × 4
However, if the target is massive (i.e. m 2 >> m1) and 3 vB + 2 v A = 22 …(i)
u 2 = 0, then the lighter body loses all its kinetic energy. Applying equation of coefficient of restitution, we have
Note 2
vB − v A = e (uA − uB ) ⇒ vB − v A = (5 − 4)
In the situation shown in figure, if e is the u=0 3
coefficient of restitution between the ball 3vB − 3v A = 2 …(ii)
and the ground, then after nth collision with h
the floor, the speed of ball will remain e nv 0 Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
and it will go upto a height e 2nh, i.e. v A = 4 ms−1 and vB = 4.67 ms−1
n n
vn = e v0 = e 2 gh
and hn = e 2nh v 0 = √2gh Example 8.35 A block of mass 5 kg moves from left to right
Total distance travelled by the ball before it with a velocity of 2 ms −1 and collides with another block of
Fig. 8.6
stops bouncing is mass 3 kg moving along the same line in the opposite
H = h⎢
⎡1 + e 2 ⎤
and total time taken by the
direction with velocity 4 ms −1.
2⎥
⎣1 − e ⎦ (i) If the collision is perfectly elastic, determine velocities of both
ball to stop bouncing will be the blocks after their collision.
1 + e ⎞ 2h
T = ⎛⎜ ⎟ (ii) If coefficient of restitution is 0.6, determine velocities of both
⎝1− e ⎠ g the blocks after their collision.
348 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

Sol. Denoting the first block by A and the second block by B, Sol. Let v1 and v 2 be the final velocities of 1st and 2nd object,
velocities immediately before and after the impact are shown respectively.
in the figure.
u v1 v2
A A m m m m
B vA B vB
uA = 2 ms–1 uB = 4 ms–1
Rest
Before collision After collision
Immediately before Immediately after
impact starts impact ends From law of conservation of momentum,
Applying principle of conservation of momentum, we have mu + m × 0 = mv1 + mv 2
m BvB + m Av A = m AuA + m BuB ⇒ v1 + v 2 = u …(i)
v − v1
⇒ 3 vB + 5 v A = 5 × 2 + 3 × (−4) Now, e= 2
3 vB + 5 v A = − 2 …(i) u1 − u2
Applying equation of coefficient of restitution, we have v 2 − v1
⇒ =e
v A − vB = e (uA − uB ) u
⇒ vB − v A = e {2 − (−4)} ⇒ v 2 − v1 = eu …(ii)
vB − v A = 6 e …(ii) Adding Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
(i) For perfectly elastic impact, e = 1.Using this value in Eq. (ii), 2v 2 = u + eu
we get ⎡1 + e ⎤
⇒ v2 = ⎢ u
vB − v A = 6 …(iii) ⎣ 2 ⎥⎦
Now, solving Eqs. (i) and (iii), we obtain Subtracting Eq. (ii) from Eq. (i), we get
v A = − 2.5 ms−1 and vB = 3.5 ms−1 2v1 = (1 − e ) u
(ii) For e = 0.6, Eq. (ii) is modified as ⎡1 − e ⎤
⇒ v1 = ⎢ u
vB − v A = 3.6 …(iv) ⎣ 2 ⎥⎦
Example 8.38 Three identical balls, ball I, ball II and ball III
Now, solving Eqs. (i) and (iv), we obtain are placed on a smooth floor in a straight line at the
v A = − 1.6 ms−1 and vB = 2 ms−1 separation of 10 m between balls as shown in figure.
Block A reverses back with speed 1.6 ms −1 and B also moves Initially balls are stationary.
in opposite direction to its original direction with speed 2 ms Ball I is given velocity of 10 ms −1 towards ball II, collision
−1
. between balls I and II is inelastic with coefficient of
restitution 0.5 but collision between balls II and III is
Example 8.36 A particle of mass 2 kg moving with a perfectly elastic.
velocity 5 $i ms −1 collides head on with another particle of What is the time interval between two consecutive collisions
mass 3 kg moving with a velocity − 2 $i ms −1. After the between balls I and II ?
collision, the first particle has speed of 1.6 ms −1 in negative
x-direction. Find I II III
(i) velocity of the centre of mass after the collision,
(ii) velocity of the second particle after the collision,
10 m 10 m
(iii) coefficient of restitution.
m u + m 2u 2 Sol. Let velocity of 1st ball and 2nd ball after collision be v1 and
Sol. (i) vc = 1 1 = 0.8 $i ms −1
m1 + m 2 v 2.
v 2 − v1 = 0.5 × 10 = 5 K (i)
(Velocity of CM before and after collision will be same)
mv 2 + mv1 = m × 10 K (ii)
(ii) v1 = − 1.6 $i ms −1 ⇒ v 2 + v1 = 10
Using law of conservation of momentum, Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
m1u1 + m 2u2 = m1v1 + m 2v 2 ⇒ v 2 = 2.4 $i ms −1 v1 = 2.5 ms −1 and v 2 = 7.5 ms −1
v 2 − v1 4 Ball II after moving 10 m collides with ball III elastically and
(iii) e = =
u1 − u 2 7 stops. But ball I moves towards ball II. Time taken between
two consecutive collisions,
Example 8.37 An object of mass m moving with speed u 2.5
collides one dimensionally with another identical object at 10 − 10 ×
10 7.5 = 4 s
rest. Find their velocities after collision, if coefficient of t= +
7.5 2.5
restitution of collision is e.
CHECK POINT 8.3
1. In an elastic collision, (a) 0.12 m (b) 1.5 m
(a) both momentum and KE are conserved (c) 0.5 m (d) 0.15 m
(b) only momentum is conserved 9. A smooth sphere of mass M moving with velocity u directly
(c) only KE is conserved collides elastically with another sphere of mass m at rest.
(d) Neither KE nor momentum is conserved After collision, their final velocities are vʹ and v, respectively.
2. A ball hits the floor and rebounds after an inelastic collision. The value of v is
In this case, 2u M 2um 2u 2u
(a) (b) (c) (d)
m M m M
(a) the momentum of the ball just after the collision is the 1+ 1+
M m
same as that just before the collision
10. A body of mass m1 moving with velocity 3 ms −1 collides with
(b) the mechanical energy of the ball remains the same in the
another body at rest of mass m2. After collision, the velocities
collision
of the two bodies are 2 ms −1 and 5 ms −1 respectively along the
(c) the total momentum of the ball and the earth is conserved m
direction of motion of m2. The ratio 1 is
(d) the total energy of the ball and the earth is conserved m2
3. If a body of mass m collides head on, elastically with 5 1 12
(a) (b) 5 (c) (d)
velocity u with another identical body at rest. After 12 5 5
collision, velocity of the second body will be
11. A body of mass m moving with velocity v collides head on
(a) zero (b) u with another body of mass 2m which is initially at rest. The
(c) 2u (d) data insufficient ratio of KE of colliding body before and after collision will
4. A body of mass M1 collides elastically with another body of be
(a) 1 : 1 (b) 2 : 1 (c) 4 : 1 (d) 9 : 1
mass M2 at rest. There is maximum transfer of energy when
(a) M1 > M 2 (b) M1 < M 2 12. The two diagrams show the situations before and after a
collision between two spheres A and B of equal radii moving
(c) M1 = M 2 along the same straight line on a smooth horizontal surface.
(d) same for all values of M1 and M 2 The coefficient of restitution e is
5. Two particles of masses m A and mB and velocities v A and v B Before collision After collision
respectively collides. After collision, they interchanges their A B A B
m
velocities, then ratio of A is
mB
vA vB v A + vB
(a) (b) (c) (d) 1
vB vA vB − v A 8 ms−1 2 ms−1 2 ms−1 5 ms−1
1 1 2 3
6. Two perfectly elastic particles A and B of equal mass are (a) (b) (c) (d)
travelling along the line joining them with velocities 15 ms −1 3 2 3 4
and 10 ms −1 . After collision, the respective velocities of A 13. Two balls of equal masses have a head on collision with
and B will be speed 6 ms −1 each. If the coefficient of restitution is 1/3, the
(a) 10 ms −1 , 10 ms −1 (b) 15 ms −1 , 15 ms −1 relative speed of separation of balls after impact will be
(c) 10 ms −1 , 15 ms −1 (d) 15 ms −1 , 10 ms −1 (a) 18 ms −1 (b) 4 ms −1
(c) 6 ms −1 (d) data insufficient
7. The collision of two balls of equal mass takes place at the
origin of coordinates. Before collision, the components of 14. A block of mass m moving at a velocity v collides with
velocities are (v x = 50 cms −1 , v y = 0) and (v x = − 40 cms −1 another block of mass 2m at rest. The lighter block comes to
−1
rest after collision. Find the coefficient of restitution.
and v y = 30 cms ). The first ball comes to rest after 1 1 1
(a) (b) 1 (c) (d)
collision. The velocity components v x and v y respectively of 2 3 4
the second ball are
15. A sphere of mass m moving with a constant velocity u hits
(a) 10 and 30 cms −1 (b) 30 and 10 cms −1 another stationary sphere of same mass. If e is the
(c) 5 and 15 cms −1 (d) 15 and 5 cms −1 coefficient of restitution, then ratio of velocities of the two
v
8. A mass of 0.5 kg moving with a speed of 1.5 ms −1 on a spheres 1 after collision will be
horizontal smooth surface, collides with a nearly weightless v2
spring of force constant k = 50 Nm −1 . The maximum 2
u
1
compression of the spring would be
1−e 1+ e e +1 e −1
(a) (b) (c) (d)
1+ e 1−e e −1 e +1
 Chapter Exercises
(A) Taking it together
Assorted questions of the chapter for advanced level practice

1 If the net external forces acting on the system of 7 A machine gun fires a steady stream of bullets at the
particles is zero, then which of the following may rate of n per minute into a stationary target in which
vary? the bullets get embedded. If each bullet has a mass m
(a) Momentum of the system and arrives at the target with a velocity v, the
(b) Velocity of centre of mass average force on the target is
(c) Position of centre of mass 60 v mnv mv
(a) 60 mnv (b) (c) (d)
(d) None of the above mn 60 60n
2 For which of the following does the centre of mass 8 A machine gun fires a bullet of mass 40 g with a
lie outside the body? [NCERT Exemplar] velocity 1200 ms −1 . The man holding it, can exert a
(a) A pencil (b) A shotput (c) A dice (d) A bangle
maximum force of 144 N on the gun. How many
3 Conservation of momentum in a collision between bullets can be fired per second at the most?
particles can be understood from [NCERT Exemplar] (a) One (b) Four (c) Two (d) Three
(a) Conservation of energy
9 A particle of mass m moving with speed v hits
(b) Newton’s first law
elastically another stationary particle of mass 2m
(c) Newton’s second law
inside a smooth horizontal circular tube of radius r.
(d) Both Newton’s second and third laws
The time after which the second collision will take
4 A body of mass a moving with velocity b strikes a place is
body of mass c and gets embedded into it. The 2πr 4πr 3πr πr
velocity of the system after collision is (a) (b) (c) (d)
v v 2v v
a +c ab
(a) (b)
ab a +c 10 A bullet of mass 20 g moving with 600 ms −1 collides
a a with a block of mass 4 kg hanging with the string of
(c) (d) length 0.4 m. What is velocity of bullet when it
b +c a +b
comes out of block, if block rises to height 0.2 m
5 A cannon ball is fired with a velocity 200 ms −1 at an after collision? (Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
angle of 60° with the horizontal. At the highest
(a) 200 ms −1 (b) 150 ms −1 (c) 400 ms −1 (d) 300 ms −1
point of its flight, it explodes into 3 equal fragments,
one going vertically upwards with a velocity 11 A mass of 10 g moving horizontally with a velocity
100 ms −1, the second one falling vertically of 100 cms −1 strikes a pendulum bob of mass 10 g.
downwards with a velocity 100 ms −1. The third Length of string is 50 cm. The two masses stick
fragment will be moving with a velocity together. The maximum height reached by the system
(a) 100 ms −1 in the horizontal direction now is (Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
(b) 300 ms −1 in the horizontal direction (a) 7.5 cm (b) 5 cm
(c) 300 ms −1 in a direction making an angle of 60° with (c) 2.5 cm (d) 1.25 cm
the horizontal
12 In a gravity free space, a man of mass M standing at
(d) 200 ms −1 in a direction making an angle of 60° with
the horizontal a height h above the floor, throws a ball of mass m
straight down with a speed u. When the ball reaches
6 Two balls of equal mass have a head on collision with the floor, the distance of the man above the floor
speed 4 ms −1 each travelling in opposite directions. If will be
the coefficient of restitution is 1/2, the speed of each ⎛ m⎞ ⎛ M⎞
ball after impact will be (a) h ⎜1 + ⎟ (b) ⎜1 + ⎟ h
⎝ M⎠ ⎝ m⎠
(a) 1 ms −1 (b) 2 ms −1 m
(c) 3 ms −1 (d) data insufficient (c) h (d) h
M
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 351

13 A cracker is thrown into air with a velocity of 10 ms −1 19 A particle of mass 1 kg is thrown vertically upward
at an angle of 45° with the vertical. When it is at a with speed 100 ms −1 . After 5 s, it explodes into two
height of (1/2) m from the ground, it explodes into a parts. One part of mass 400 g emerges with speed
number of pieces which follow different parabolic 25 ms −1 in downward direction , what is the
paths. What is the velocity of centre of mass, when velocity of other part just after explosion?
it is at a height of 1 m from the ground? (Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
(Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
(a) 100 ms −1 upward (b) 600 ms −1 upward
(a) 4 5 ms −1 (b) 2 5 ms −1 (c) 100 ms −1 downward (d) 300 ms −1 upward
(c) 5 4 ms −1 (d) 5 ms −1
20 A circular plate of diameter a
14 Two blocks of masses 10 kg and 30 kg are placed is kept in contact with a
along a vertical line. The first block is raised through square plate of edge a as
a height of 7 cm. By what distance should the shown in figure. The density
a a
second mass be moved to raise the centre of mass by of the material and the
1 cm? thickness are same everywhere. The centre of mass
(a) 2 cm upward (b) 1 cm upward of the composite system will be
(c) 2 cm downward (d) 1 cm downward (a) inside the circular plate
15 A cricket ball of mass 150 g moving with a speed of (b) inside the square plate
(c) at the point of contact
126 kmh −1 hits at the middle of the bat, held firmly
(d) outside the system
at its position by the batsman. The ball moves
straight back to the bowler after hitting the bat. 21 A ladder is leaned against a smooth wall and is
Assuming that collision between ball and bat is allowed to slip on a frictionless floor. Which figure
completely elastic and the two remain in contact for represents trace of its centre of mass?
0.001 s, the force that the batsman had to apply to
hold the bat firmly at its place would be
(a) 10.5 N (b) 21 N [NCERT Exemplar] (a) (b)
(c) 1.05 ×104 N (d) 2.1 × 104 N
16 Which of the following points is the likely position
Time Time
of the centre of mass of the system as shown in
figure? [NCERT Exemplar]
Hollow sphere
Air (c) (d)

R/2 A
B
Time Time
C
R/2 22 Both the blocks as shown in the given arrangement
D are given together a horizontal velocity towards
Sand right. If a CM be the subsequent acceleration of the
(a) A (b) B centre of mass of the system of blocks, then a CM
(c) C (d) D will be
17 A metal ball falls from a height of 32 m on a steel 1kg µ = 0.1
plate. If the coefficient of restitution is 0.5, to what
2kg µ = 0.2
height will the ball rise after second bounce?
(a) 2 m (b) 4 m
5
(c) 8 m (d) 16 m (a) zero (b) ms −2
3
18 10000 small balls, each weighing 1 g, strikes 1 cm 2 7 −2
of area per second with a velocity 100 ms −1 in a (c) ms (d) 2 ms −2
3
normal direction and rebound with the same
velocity. The value of pressure on the surface will 23 In a free space, a rifle of mass M shoots a bullet of
be mass m at a stationary block of mass M at a distance
(a) 2 × 10 Nm
3 −2
(b) 2 × 10 Nm5 −2 D away from it. When the bullet has moved through
a distance d towards the block, the centre of mass of
(c) 107 Nm−2 (d) 2 × 107 Nm−2 the bullet-block system is at a distance of
352 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

(D − d ) m 28 A bullet of mass m is fired into a block of wood of

(a) from the bullet
M +m mass M which hangs on the end of pendulum and
md + MD gets embedded into it. When the bullet strikes the
(b) from the block wooden block, the pendulum starts to swing with
M +m
maximum rise R. Then, the velocity of the bullet is
2md + MD given by
(c) from the block
M +m M M +m
(a) 2gR (b) 2gR
(D − d ) M m +M m
(d) from the bullet
M +m M
(c) 2gR (d) None of these
24 A man of mass M stands at one end of a plank of m
length L which lies at rest on a frictionless surface. 29 A ball falling freely from a height of 4.9 m , hits a
The man walks to the other end of the plank. If the horizontal surface. If e = 3 /4, then the ball will hit
M
mass of the plank is , the distance that the man the surface second time after
3 (a) 1 s (b) 1.5 s (c) 2 s (d) 3 s
moves relative to the ground is
3L L 4L L 30 In a one dimensional collision between two identical
(a) (b) (c) (d) particles A and B, B is stationary and A has
4 4 5 3
momentum p before impact. During impact, B gives
25 A 2 kg block of wood rests on a long table top. A 5 g an impulse J to A. Then, coefficient of restitution
bullet moving horizontally with a speed of 150 ms −1 between the two is
is shot into the block and sticks to it. The block then 2J 2J J J
slides 2.7 m along the table top and comes to a stop. (a) −1 (b) +1 (c) +1 (d) −1
p p p p
The force of friction between the block and the
table is 31 A particle of mass m kg moving with a velocity
(a) 0.052 N (b) 3.63 N (c) 2.50 N (d) 1.04 N (3 $i + 2$j ) ms −1 collides with a stationary body of
26 A particle falls from a height h upon a fixed mass M kg and finally moves with a velocity
horizontal plane and rebounds. If e is the coefficient m 1
(− 2$i + $j ) ms −1. If = , then
of restitution, the total distance travelled before M 13
rebounding has stopped is (a) the impulse is ±m (5i$ + $j) kg-ms −1
⎛1 + e 2 ⎞ ⎛1 − e 2 ⎞ 1 $ $
(a) h ⎜ ⎟ (b) h ⎜ ⎟ (b) the velocity of the M is (5 i + j) ms −1
⎝1 − e 2 ⎠ ⎝1 + e 2 ⎠ 13
h ⎛1 − e 2 ⎞ h ⎛1 + e 2 ⎞ (c) Both (a) and (b) are wrong
(c) ⎜ ⎟ (d) ⎜ ⎟ (d) Both (a) and (b) are correct
2 ⎝1 + e 2 ⎠ 2 ⎝1 − e 2 ⎠
32 A ball falls freely from a height of 45 m. When the
27 Two identical balls bearing in 1 2 3 ball is at a height of 25 m, it explodes into two equal
contact with each other and pieces. One of them moves horizontally with a speed
resting on a frictionless table of 10 ms −1. The distance between the two pieces on
are hit head on by another ball v the ground is
bearing the same mass moving (a) 20 m (b) 30 m (c) 40 m (d) 60 m
initially with a speed v as shown in figure.
33 A ball of mass m is released from the top of an
If the collision is elastic, which of the following inclined plane of inclination θ as shown in figure. It
(figure) is a possible result after collision? 3h
[NCERT Exemplar] strikes a rigid surface at a distances from top
4
1 1 2 3 elastically. Impulse imparted to ball by the rigid
(a) (b)
surface is

v=0 v/2 v=0 v m

1 2 3 1 2 3 l
h
h

(c) (d)
t
oo
Sm

v/3 θ
v/1 v/2 v/3
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 353

3 Which of the following cannot be the coordinates of

(a) m gh (b) m 3gh
2 centre of mass of the object?
(c) 2m 3gh (d) m 6gh Y

34 A block A of mass M moving with speed u collides B

elastically with block B of mass m which is
connected to block C of mass m with a spring. X
A u A
B C
M m m
⎛R R ⎞ ⎛R R ⎞
(a) ⎜ , ⎟ (b) ⎜ , ⎟
When the compression in spring is maximum, the ⎝ 3 3⎠ ⎝ 2 2⎠
velocity of block C with respect to block A is ⎛R R ⎞
(Neglect the friction everywhere) (c) ⎜ , ⎟ (d) None of these
⎝ 4 4⎠
⎛ M ⎞ ⎛ m ⎞ ⎛m ⎞
(a) zero (b) ⎜ ⎟ u (c) ⎜ ⎟u (d) ⎜ ⎟ u 39 A circular ring of mass 6 kg and radius a is placed
⎝M + m ⎠ ⎝M + m ⎠ ⎝M⎠
such that its centre lies at the origin. Two particles
35 A particle of mass m moving with velocity u makes an of masses 2 kg each are placed at the intersecting
elastic one dimensional collision with a stationary points of the circle with positive X-axis and positive
particle of mass m. They are in contact for a brief time Y-axis. Then, the angle made by the position vector
T. Their force of interaction increases from zero to F0 of centre of mass of entire system with X-axis is
T ⎛ 4⎞
linearly in time and decreases linearly to zero in (a) 45° (b) 60° (c) tan−1 ⎜ ⎟ (d) 30°
2 ⎝ 5⎠
T
further time . The magnitude of F0 is 40 A particle A of mass m initially at rest slides down a
2 height of 1.25 m on a frictionless ramp, collides with
mu 2mu mu
(a) (b) (c) (d) None of these and sticks to an identical particle B of mass m at rest
T T 2T as shown in the figure.
36 A T-shaped object with dimensions as shown in the m
figure, is lying on a smooth floor. A force F is A
applied at the point P parallel to AB, such that the 1.25 m
object has only the translational motion without B C
rotation. Find the location of P with respect to C .
m 2m
l
A B Then, particles A and B together collide elastically
with particle C of mass 2m at rest. The speed of
P particle C after the collision with combined body
F 2l
(A + B ) would be (Take, g = 10 ms −2 )
C (a) 2 ms −1 (b) 1.25 ms −1 (c) 2.5 ms −1 (d) 5 ms −1

4 41 A man of mass m moves with a constant speed on a

(a) l (b) l plank of mass M and length l kept initially at rest on
3
2 3 a frictionless horizontal surface from one end to the
(c) l (d) l other in time t. The speed of the plank relative to
3 2
ground while man is moving, is
37 A ball is projected vertically down with an initial l ⎛M⎞ l ⎛ m ⎞
velocity from a height of 20 m onto a horizontal (a) ⎜ ⎟ (b) ⎜ ⎟
t ⎝m ⎠ t ⎝m + M⎠
floor. During the impact, it loses 50% of its energy
and rebounds to the same height. The initial velocity l ⎛ M ⎞
(c) ⎜ ⎟ (d) None of these
of its projection is (Take, g = 10 ms −2 ) t ⎝M + m ⎠
(a) 20 ms−1 (b) 15 ms−1 (c) 10 ms−1 (d) 5 ms−1 42 You are supplied with three identical rods of same
38 An object comprises a uniform ring of radius R and length and mass. If the length of each rod is 2π.
its uniform chord AB (not necessarily made of the Two of them are converted into rings and then
same material) as shown in figure. placed over the third rod as shown in figure. If
point A is considered as origin of the coordinate
354 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

system, the coordinates of the centre of mass will be 46 A girl throws a ball with initial velocity v at an
(you may assume AB as X-axis of the coordinate inclination of 45°. The ball strikes the smooth
system) vertical wall at a horizontal distance d from the girl
and after rebounding returns to her hand. What is
the coefficient of restitution between wall and the
ball?
A B
gd
(a) v 2 − gd (b)
⎛ π 1⎞ ⎛ π 2⎞ ⎛ 1⎞ ⎛ 2⎞ 2
v − gd
(a) ⎜ , ⎟ (b) ⎜ , ⎟ (c) ⎜ π, ⎟ (d) ⎜ π, ⎟
⎝ 2 3⎠ ⎝ 2 3⎠ ⎝ 3⎠ ⎝ 3⎠
gd v2
(c) 2
(d)
43 A pendulum consists of a wooden bob of mass m and v gd
length l. A bullet of mass m1 is fired towards the
47 A disc of mass 10 g is kept floating horizontally by
pendulum with a speed v 1 and it emerges from the
v throwing 10 marbles per second against it from
bob with speed 1 . The bob just completes motion below. If the mass of each marble is 5 g. What will
3 be velocity with which the marbles are striking the
along a vertical circle. Then, v 1 is disc? Assume that, the marble strikes the disc
normally and rebound downwards with the same
speed.
O
(a) 2.98 ms −1 (b) 0.98 ms −1
(c) 0.49 ms −1 (d) 1.96 ms −1
m1 v1 m m1 v1 /3 48 Two blocks of masses m and 2m are kept on a
m 3m smooth horizontal surface. They are connected by an
(a) 5gl (b) 5gl ideal spring of force constant k. Initially, the spring
m1 2m1
is unstretched. A constant force is applied to the
2 ⎛m⎞ ⎛m ⎞ heavier block in the direction as shown in figure.
(c) ⎜ ⎟ 5gl (d) ⎜ 1⎟ gl
3 ⎝ m1⎠ ⎝m⎠ Suppose at time t, displacement of smaller block is x,
44 From a circular disc of radius R, a square is cut out then displacement of the heavier block at this
with a radius as its diagonal. The centre of mass of moment would be
F
remaining portion is at a distance (from the centre) m 2m
R R
(a) (b)
(4π − 2) 2π
R R
(c) (d) x Ft 2 x x Ft 2 x
(π − 2) (2π − 2) (a) (b) + (c) (d) −
2 6m 3 3 4m 2
45 A uniform circular disc of radius a is taken. A 49 Three identical blocks A, B and C are placed on
circular portion of radius b has been removed from it horizontal frictionless surface. The blocks B and C
as shown in the figure. If the centre of hole is at a are at rest but A is approaching towards B with a
distance c from the centre of the disc, the distance
speed 10 ms −1 .
x 2 of the centre of mass of the remaining part from A B C
the initial centre of mass O is given by

The coefficient of restitution for all collisions is 0.5.

a The speed of the block C just after collision is
b
approximately
O2 O O1 X-axis (a) 5.6 ms −1 (b) 6.4 ms −1
x2 c (c) 3.2 ms −1 (d) 4.6 ms −1
50 A train of mass M is moving on a circular track of
radius R with constant speed v. The length of the
πb 2 cb 2 train is half of the perimeter of the track. The linear
(a) (b)
(a 2 − c 2 ) (a 2 − b 2 ) momentum of the train will be
πc 2
ca 2 2Mv πMv
(c) (d) (a) πMv (b) (c) (d) Mv
2
(a − b ) 2
(c − b 2 )
2 π 2
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 355

51 n elastic balls are placed at rest on a smooth 52 A small ball rolls off the top landing of the staircase.
horizontal plane which is circular at the ends with It strikes the mid-point of the first step and then the
radius r as shown in the figure. The masses of the mid-point of the second step. The steps are smooth,
m m m and identical in height and width. The coefficient of
balls are m, , 2 , K, n − 1 , respectively. What is
2 2 2 restitution between the ball and the first step is
the minimum velocity which should be imparted to 3
(a) 1 (b)
the first ball of mass m such that this nth ball will 4
complete the vertical circle? 1 1
(c) (d)
2 4
53 Two identical blocks A and B, each of mass m
r resting on smooth floor are connected by a light
m spring of natural length L and spring constant k with
the spring at its natural length. A third identical
n −1 n −1
⎛ 3⎞ ⎛ 4⎞ block C (mass m) moving with a speed v along the
(a) ⎜ ⎟ 5gr (b) ⎜ ⎟ 5gr line joining A and B collides with A, the maximum
⎝ 4⎠ ⎝ 3⎠
n −1 n −1 compression in the spring is
⎛ 3⎞ ⎛ 2⎞
(c) ⎜ ⎟ 5gr (d) ⎜ ⎟ 5gr m v mv mv
⎝ 2⎠ ⎝ 3⎠ (a) v (b) m (c) (d)
2k 2k k 2k

(B) Medical entrance special format questions

Assertion and reason
Linear momentum of the system will not remain
Directions (Q. Nos. 1-6) These questions consist of two
statements each printed as Assertion and Reason. While constant till the spring reaches its initial natural
answering these questions, you are required to choose any length.
one of the following four responses
(a) If both Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason is the A B
correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) If both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason is not Reason An external force will act from the wall on
the correct explanation of Assertion. block A.
(c) If Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
(d) If Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct. 5. Assertion Two blocks of masses m A and
1 Assertion The relative velocity of the two particles mB (mB > m A ) are thrown towards each other with
in head on elastic collision is unchanged both in same speed over a rough ground. The coefficient of
magnitude and direction. friction of both the blocks with ground is same.
Reason The relative velocity is unchanged in Initial velocity of CM is towards left.
magnitude but gets reversed in direction. A v v B
2. Assertion If net force on a system is zero, then Rough
momentum of every individual body remains
constant. Reason Initial acceleration of centre of mass is
towards right.
Reason If momentum of a system is constant, then
kinetic energy of the system may change. 6. Assertion Two identical spheres are half filled with
two liquids of densities ρ1 and ρ 2 ( > ρ1 ). The centre of
3. Assertion Two bodies moving in opposite
mass of both the spheres lie at same level.
directions with same magnitude of linear momentum
collide with each other. Then, after collision both
the bodies will come to rest.
Reason Linear momentum of the system of bodies is zero.
(a) (b)
4. Assertion Two blocks A and B are connected at
the two ends of an ideal spring as shown in figure. Reason The centre of mass will lie at centre of the
Initially spring was relaxed. Now, block B is pressed. sphere.
356 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

Statements based questions II. In elastic collision, kinetic energy during the
collision time Δt is constant.
1 Two trains A and B are running in the same
Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
direction on parallel rails such that A is faster than B.
(a) Only I (b) Only II
Packets of equal weight are transferred between (c) Both I and II (d) Neither I nor II
them. Which of the following statement is correct?
(a) A will be accelerated, but B will be retarded. Match the columns
(b) B will be accelerated, but A will be retarded.
(c) There will be no change in A, but B will be accelerated. 1 In the diagram shown in figure, mass of both the
(d) There will be no change in B, but A will be accelerated. balls is same. Match the following columns and mark
2 In a two block system, an initial velocity v 0 with the correct option from the codes given below.
v v'
respect to ground is given to block A. Which of the
1 2 ⇒ 2
following statement(s) is/are correct?
Before After
A v0 Rough collision collision
B Column I Column II
Smooth (A) For v ʹ = v (p) e=0
(a) The momentum of block A is not conserved. (B) For v ʹ = v / 2 (q) e =1
(b) The momentum of system of blocks A and B is (C) For v ʹ = (3 / 4 ) v (r) e = 1/ 2
conserved.
(s) Data is insufficient
(c) The increase in momentum of B is equal to the
decrease in momentum of block A. Codes
(d) All of the above A B C A B C
O (a) p q r (b) q p r
3 The bob A of a simple pendulum
(c) s r q (d) s p r
is released when the string
makes an angle of 45° with the 45° 2 A particle of mass 1 kg has velocity v 1 = (2t ) $i and
vertical. It hits another bob B of another particle of mass 2 kg has velocity
the same material and same A v 2 = (t 2 ) $j . Match the following columns and mark
mass kept at rest on a table. If B the correct option from the codes given below.
the collision is elastic, which of
Column I Column II
the following statement is correct?
(a) Both A and B rise to the same height. (A) Net force on centre of mass at 2 s (p) 20 unit
(b) Both A and B come to rest at B. 9
(c) Both A and B move with the same velocity of A. (B) Velocity of centre of mass at 2 s (q) 68 unit
(d) A comes to rest and B moves with the velocity of A. (C) Displacement of centre of mass in 2 s (r) 80 / 3 unit
4 I. Linear momentum of the system remains (s) None
constant. Codes
II. Centre of mass of the system remains at rest. A B C A B C
Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? (a) q r p (b) q p r
(a) I implies II and II implies I (c) p r s (d) s q r
(b) I does not imply II and II does not imply I 3 A particle of mass m, kinetic energy K and
(c) I implies II but II does not imply I momentum p collides head on elastically with
(d) II implies I but I does not imply II another particle of mass 2 m at rest. Match the
5 I. Linear momentum of a system of particles is following columns (after collision) and mark the
zero. correct option from the codes given below.
II. Kinetic energy of a system of particles is zero. Column I Column II
Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? (A) Momentum of first particle (p) 4 p/3
(a) I implies II and II implies I (B) Momentum of second particle (q) K/9
(b) I does not imply II and II does not imply I (C) Kinetic energy of first particle (r) − p/3
(c) I implies II but II does not imply I (D) Kinetic energy of second particle (s) 8K/9
(d) II implies I but I does not imply II
A B C D A B C D
6 I. In elastic collision, initial kinetic energy is equal (a) q r s p (b) p s r q
to the final kinetic energy. (c) r p q s (d) s q r p
(C) Medical entrances’ gallery
Collection of questions asked in NEET & various medical entrance exams

1 Two particles of masses 5 kg and 10 kg respectively inelastically and sticks to it. Then, loss in kinetic
are attached to the two ends of a rigid rod of length energy of the system will be [AIIMS 2019]
1 m with negligible mass. The centre of mass of the (a) 7.5 kJ (b) 15 kJ (c) 10 kJ (d) 5 kJ
system from the 5 kg particle is nearly at a distance 7 Assertion There is no loss in energy in elastic
of [NEET 2020] collision.
(a) 50 cm (b) 67 cm Reason Linear momentum is conserved in elastic
(c) 80 cm (d) 33 cm collision. [AIIMS 2019]
2 Three identical spheres, each of mass M, are placed (a) Both Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason is the
at the corners of a right angle triangle with the correct explanation of Assertion.
mutually perpendicular sides equal to 2 m (see (b) Both Assertion and Reason are correct, but Reason is not
figure). Taking the point of intersection of the two the correct explanation of Assertion.
mutually perpendicular sides as the origin, find the (c) Assertion is correct, but Reason is incorrect.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are incorrect.
position vector of centre of mass. [NEET 2020]
8 One object of mass 20 kg is moving with speed
j
10 ms −1 in west direction and another object of mass
M 10 kg is moving with 15 ms −1 in north direction.
Both collide and stick together. Choose the correct
2m alternative. [JIPMER 2019]
M (a) Their kinetic energy is conserved as it is inelastic
M 2m i
collision.
(b) Their kinetic energy is conserved as it is elastic
2 $ $ 4 $ $ collision.
(a) 2(i$ + j$ ) (b) (i$ + j$ ) (c) (i + j ) (d) (i + j ) (c) Their momentum is conserved as it is inelastic collision.
3 3
(d) Their momentum is conserved as it is elastic collision.
3 Body A of mass 4m moving with speed u collides
with another body B of mass 2m at rest. The collision 9 Two objects of mass m each moving with speed
is head on and elastic in nature. After the collision, u ms −1 collide at 90°, then final momentum is
the fraction of energy lost by the colliding body A is (assume collision is inelastic) [JIPMER 2019]
[NEET 2019] (a) mu (b) 2 mu (c) 2 mu (d) 2 2 mu
8 4 5 1
(a) (b) (c) (d) 10 A moving block having mass m, collides with another
9 9 9 9
stationary block having mass 4m. The lighter block
4 An object flying in air with velocity(20 $i + 25$j − 12k
$)
comes to rest after collision. When the initial
suddenly breaks in two pieces whose masses are in velocity of the lighter block is v, then the value of
the ratio 1 : 5. The smaller mass flies off with a coefficient of restitution (e ) will be [NEET 2018]
velocity (100 $i + 35$j + 8k
$ ). The velocity of the larger
(a) 0.8 (b) 0.25 (c) 0.5 (d) 0.4
piece will be [NEET (Odisha) 2019] 11 Three bodies having masses 5 kg, 4 kg and 2 kg are
(a) 4i$ + 23$j − 16 k$ (b) − 100i$ − 35$j − 8k$ moving at the speeds of 5 ms −1, 4 ms −1 and 2 ms −1,
(c) 20i$ + 15$j − 80k$ (d) − 20i$ − 15j$ − 80k$ respectively along X-axis. The magnitude of velocity
of centre of mass is [AIIMS 2018]
5 A particle of mass 5m at rest suddenly breaks on its
own into three fragments. Two fragments of mass m (a) 1.0 ms −1 (b) 4 ms −1
each move along mutually perpendicular directions (c) 0.9 ms −1 (d) 1.3 ms −1
each with speed v. The energy released during the 12 Body of mass M is much heavier than the other body
process is [NEET (Odisha) 2019] of mass m. The heavier body with speed v collides
3 5 3 4 with the lighter body which was at rest initially
(a) mv 2 (b) mv 2 (c) mv 2 (d) mv 2
5 3 2 3 elastically. The speed of lighter body after collision is
[AIIMS 2018]
6 A body of mass 5 × 10 3 kg moving with speed v
(a) 2 v (b) 3 v (c) v (d)
2 ms −1 collides with a body of mass 15 × 10 3 kg 2
358 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

13 Assertion Two particles are moving in the same to a wedge fixed rigidly with the horizontal part. A
direction do not lose all their energy in completely 40 g mass is released from rest while situated at a
inelastic collision. height 5 m of the curved track. The minimum
Reason Principle of conservation of momentum deformation in the spring is nearly equal to (Take,
holds true for all kinds of collisions. [AIIMS 2018] g = 10 ms −2 )
[AIIMS 2015]
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason is
the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason is not
5m
the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is correct but Reason is incorrect.
(d) Assertion is incorrect but Reason is correct.
14 A ball of 0.5 kg collided with wall at 30° and (a) 9.8 m (b) 9.8 cm (c) 0.98 m (d) 0.009 km
bounced back elastically. The speed of ball was 20 A block having mass m collides with an another
12ms −1. The contact remained for 1s. What is the stationary block having mass 2 m. The lighter block
force applied by wall on ball? [JIPMER 2018] comes to rest after collision. If the velocity of first
(a) 12 3 N (b) 3 N (c) 6 3 N (d) 3 3 N block is v, then the value of coefficient of restitution
will must be [AIIMS 2015]
15 A body of mass 4 kg moving with velocity 12 ms −1 (a) 0.5 (b) 0.4 (c) 0.6 (d) 0.8
collides with another body of mass 6 kg at rest. If
two bodies stick together after collision, then the loss 21 A smooth curved surface of height 10 m is ended
of kinetic energy of system is [AIIMS 2017] horizontally. A spring of force constant 200 Nm –1 is
(a) zero (b) 288 J (c) 172.8 J (d) 144 J fixed at the horizontal end as shown in figure. When
16 Two masses of 6 and 2 unit, are at positions (6$i −7$j) an object of mass 10 g is released from the top, it
travels along the curved path and collides with the
and (2$i + 5$j − 8k$ ), respectively. The coordinates of spring. Then, the maximum compression in the
the centre of mass are [JIPMER 2017] spring is (Take, g = 10 ms −2 ) [EAMCET 2015]
(a) (2,−5,3) (b) (5,−5, −3) (c) (5,−4,−2) (d) (5,−4,−4)
17 A block C of mass m is moving with velocity v 0 and
collides elastically with block A of mass m and
connected to another block B of mass 2m through
spring of spring constant k. What is the value of k, if
x 0 is compression of spring, when velocity of A and (a) 10 m (b) 0.1 m (c) 1 m (d) 0.01 m
B is same? [JIPMER 2017] 22 A frog sits on the end of a long board of length
C v0 A B
L = 10 cm. The board rests on a frictionless
horizontal table. The frog wants to jump to the
mv 02 mv 02 3 mv 02 2 mv 02 opposite end of the board. What is minimum take off
(a) (b) (c) (d) speed v in ms −1 relative to the ground that the frog
x 02 2 x 02 2 x 02 3 x 02
follows to do the trick? [Assume that, the board and
18. Two particles of masses m1 and m 2 move with initial frog have equal masses.] [UP CPMT 2015]
velocities u1 and u 2 . On collision, one of the particles (a) 2 5 ms −1 (b) 5 ms −1 (c) 5 2 ms −1 (d) 10 2 ms −1
get excited to higher level, after absorbing energy ε.
23 A particle of mass m collides with another stationary
If final velocities of particles be v 1 and v 2 , then we
particle of mass M. If the particle m stops just after
must have [CBSE AIPMT 2015]
collision, then the coefficient of restitution for
(a) m12 u1 + m 22 u2 − ε = m12 v1 + m 22 v 2 collision is equal to [Manipal 2015]
1 1 1 1 m M −m m
(b) m1 u12 + m 2 u22 = m1 v12 + m 2v 22 − ε (a) 1 (b) (c) (d)
2 2 2 2 M M +m M +m
1 1 1 1
(c) m1 u12 + m 2 u22 − ε = m1 v12 + m 2v 22 24 A body from height h is dropped, if the coefficient of
2 2 2 2
1 2 2 1 2 2 1 2 2 1 2 2 restitution is e, then calculate the height achieved
(d) m1 u1 + m 2 u2 + ε = m1 v1 + m 2v 2 after one bounce. [Manipal 2015]
2 2 2 2
(a) h1 = e 4h (b) h = e h1
19 Consider the situation as shown in figure. A spring
of spring constant 400 Nm −1
is attached at one end (c) h1 = e 2h (d) h = h1 /e
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 359

25 Three particles of masses 0.5 kg, 1 kg, 1.5 kg are 31 A gun fires a small bullet with kinetic energy K.
placed at the three corners of a right angled triangle Then, kinetic energy of the gun while recoiling is
of sides 3 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm as shown in adjoining [KCET 2013]
figure. What would be coordinates (x, y) of the (a) K (b) more than K
centre of mass of system? (c) less than K (d) K
[UK PMT 2015, UP CPMT 2015] 32 The linear momentum is conserved in [J&K CET 2013]
1.5 kg (a) elastic collisions (b) inelastic collisions
(c) Both (a) and (b) (d) Neither (a) nor (b)
3 cm 5 cm
33 Three particles, each of mass m are placed at the
vertices of a right angled triangle as shown in figure.
0.5 kg 4 cm 1 kg
The position vector of the centre of mass of the
$ are unit vectors)
system is (O is the origin and $i , $j, k
Y [EAMCET 2013]
(a) (1.3, 1.5) (b) (2.3, 1.5)
(c) (1.3, 2.5) (d) (2.3, 2.5)
B m
26 A large number of particles are placed around the
origin, each at a distance R from the origin. The b
distance of the centre of mass of the system from the
origin is [WB JEE 2015] m
O m A X
(a) equal to R (b) less than or equal to R a
(c) greater than R (d) greater than or equal to R 1 $ $ 2 $ $
(a) (a i − bj) (b) (a i − bj)
27 A body of mass 4m is lying in xy-plane at rest. It 3 3
suddenly explodes into three pieces. Two pieces 2 1
(c) (a$i + b$j) (d) (a$i + b$j)
each of mass m move perpendicular to each other 3 3
with equal speeds v. The total kinetic energy 34 A ball of mass m moving with a horizontal velocity v
generated due to explosion is [CBSE AIPMT 2014] strikes the bob of a pendulum at rest. Mass of the
(a) mv 2 (b) (3 / 2) mv 2 bob of the pendulum is also m. During this collision,
(c) 2mv 2 (d) 4 mv 2 the ball sticks with the bob of the pendulum. The
height to which the combined mass rises will be
28 The linear momentum of a particle varies with time t (g = acceleration due to gravity) [EAMCET 2013]
as p = a + bt + ct 2 . Then, which of the following is v2 v2 v2 v2
correct? [EAMCET 2014]
(a) (b) (c) (d)
4g 8g g 2g
(a) Velocity of particle is inversely proportional to time
(b) Displacement of the particle is independent of time 35 In an inelastic collision, [Kerala CEE 2013]
(c) Force varies with time in a quadratic manner (a) momentum is not conserved
(d) Force is dependent linearly on time (b) momentum is conserved but kinetic energy is not
conserved
29 The position of centre of mass of a system of (c) both momentum and kinetic energy are conserved
particles does not depend upon the [Kerala CEE 2014] (d) neither momentum nor kinetic energy is conserved
(a) mass of particles (e) kinetic energy is conserved but not momentum
(b) symmetry of the body
(c) position of the particles
36 Two spheres A and B of masses m1 and m 2
(d) nature of particles respectively collide. A is at rest initially and B is
(e) relative distance between the particles moving with velocity v along X-axis. After collision,
30 An explosion breaks a rock into three parts in a
B has a velocity v /2 in a direction perpendicular to
horizontal plane. Two of them go off at right angles the original direction. The mass A moves after
to each other. The first part of mass 1 kg moves with collision in the direction [CBSE AIPMT 2012]
(a) same as that of B
a speed of 12 ms −1 and the second part of mass 2 kg
(b) opposite to that of B
moves with speed of 8 ms −1. If the third part flies ⎛ 1⎞
off with speed of 4 ms −1 , then its mass is [NEET 2013] (c) θ = tan−1 ⎜ ⎟ to the X-axis
⎝ 2⎠
(a) 3 kg (b) 5 kg
⎛ −1⎞
(c) 7 kg (d) 17 kg (d) θ = tan−1⎜ ⎟ to the X-axis
⎝2⎠
360 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

37 Two persons of masses 55 kg and 65 kg respectively 42 A mass of 10 g moving horizontally with a velocity
are at the opposite ends of a boat. The length of the of 100 cm s −1 strikes a pendulum bob of same mass.
boat is 3 m and weighs 100 kg. The 55 kg man The two masses after collision stick together.
walks up to the 65 kg man and sits with him. If the What will be the maximum height reached by the
boat is in still water, the centre of mass of the system now? (Take, g = 10 ms −2 ) [JCECE 2012]
system shifts by [CBSE AIPMT 2012]
(a) 3.0 m (b) 2.3 m
(c) zero (d) 0.75 m
38 A body of mass 0.25 kg is projected with muzzle
velocity 100 ms −1 from a tank of mass 100 kg. What
is the recoil velocity of the tank? [AIIMS 2012]
(a) Zero (b) 1.25 cm (c) 2.5 cm (d) 5 cm
(a) 5 ms−1
b) 25 ms −1 43 In the diagram shown below, m1 and m 2 are the
(c) 0.5 ms −1 (d) 0.25 ms −1 masses of two particles and x 1 and x 2 are their
39 When a body of mass m1 moving with uniform respective distances from the origin O. The centre of
mass of the system is [J&K CET 2011]
velocity 40 ms −1 collides with another body of mass
O m1 m2
m 2 at rest, then the two together begin to move with
x1
uniform velocity of 30 ms −1. The ratio of the masses x2
(i.e. m1 /m 2 ) of the two bodies will be
[BCECE (Mains) 2012] m1x 2 + m 2x 2 m1 + m 2
(a) (b)
(a) 1 : 3 (b) 3 : 1 m1 + m 2 2
(c) 1 : 1.33 (d) 1 : 0.75 m1x1 + m 2x 2 m1m 2 + x1x 2
40 A ball moving with velocity 9 ms −1 collides with (c) (d)
m1 + m 2 m1 + m 2
another similar stationary ball. If after the collision,
both the balls move in directions making an angle of 44 A bullet of mass m moving with velocity v strikes a
30° with the initial direction, then their speeds after suspended wooden block of mass M. If the block rises
collision will be [BHU 2012] to a height h, then initial velocity of the block will be
(a) 5.2 ms−1 (b) 0.52 ms−1 [Haryana PMT 2011]
(c) 52 ms−1 (d) 26 ms−1 M +m
(a) 2gh (b) gh
m
41 A body of mass m1 = 4 kg moves at 5 $i ms −1 and m M +m
(c) 2gh (d) 2gh
another body of mass m 2 = 2 kg moves at 10 $i ms −1. M +m M
The kinetic energy of centre of mass is [Manipal 2012] 45 A particle of mass m1 moves with velocity v 1 and
200 500 collides with another particle at rest of equal mass.
(a) J (b) J
3 3 The velocity of the second particle after the elastic
400 800 collision is [DUMET 2011]
(c) J (d) J
3 3 (a) 2v1 (b) v1 (c) −v1 (d) 0
 ANSWERS
CHECK POINT 8.1
1. (a) 2. (c) 3. (d) 4. (b) 5. (b) 6. (c) 7. (d) 8. (b) 9. (a) 10. (b)
11. (d) 12. (c) 13. (d) 14. (d) 15. (d) 16. (d)

CHECK POINT 8.2

1. (c) 2. (d) 3. (b) 4. (d) 5. (b) 6. (c) 7. (a) 8. (d) 9. (d) 10. (b)
11. (a) 12. (a) 13. (b) 14. (c) 15. (b) 16. (c) 17. (a)

CHECK POINT 8.3

1. (a) 2. (c) 3. (b) 4. (c) 5. (d) 6. (c) 7. (a) 8. (d) 9. (c) 10. (b)
11. (d) 12. (b) 13. (b) 14. (a) 15. (b)

(A) Taking it together

1. (c) 2. (d) 3. (d) 4. (b) 5. (b) 6. (b) 7. (c) 8. (d) 9. (a) 10. (a)
11. (d) 12. (a) 13. (a) 14. (d) 15. (c) 16. (c) 17. (a) 18. (d) 19. (a) 20. (b)
21. (a) 22. (d) 23. (d) 24. (b) 25. (a) 26. (a) 27. (b) 28. (b) 29. (b) 30. (a)
31. (d) 32. (a) 33. (d) 34. (c) 35. (b) 36. (a) 37. (a) 38. (b) 39. (a) 40. (c)
41. (b) 42. (d) 43. (b) 44. (a) 45. (b) 46. (b) 47. (b) 48. (d) 49. (a) 50. (b)
51. (a) 52. (b) 53. (a)

(B) Medical entrance special format questions

! Assertion and reason
1. (d) 2. (d) 3. (d) 4. (a) 5. (b) 6. (c)

! Statement based questions

1. (b) 2. (d) 3. (d) 4. (d) 5. (d) 6. (a)

! Match the columns

1. (b) 2. (a) 3. (c)

(C) Medical entrances’ gallery

1. (b) 2. (c) 3. (a) 4. (a) 5. (d) 6. (a) 7. (b) 8. (c) 9. (c) 10. (b)
11. (b) 12. (a) 13. (a) 14. (c) 15. (c) 16. (c) 17. (d) 18. (c) 19. (b) 20. (a)
21. (b) 22. (c) 23. (b) 24. (c) 25. (a) 26. (b) 27. (b) 28. (d) 29. (d) 30. (b)
31. (c) 32. (c) 33. (d) 34. (b) 35. (b) 36. (c) 37. (c) 38. (d) 39. (b) 40. (a)
41. (c) 42. (b) 43. (c) 44. (a) 45. (b)
 Hints & Explanations
! CHECK POINT 8.1 8 (b) X CM (from P) =
m × 0 + m × PQ + m × PR
(Q m = 1kg )
1 (a) Let the coordinates of the centre of mass be (x, y ). m+m+m
Y
m1x1 + m 2x 2 1 × (−1) + 2 × 2 −1 + 4
x= = = =1
m1 + m 2 3 3 P Q R
X
m1y1 + m 2 y 2 1 × 2 + 2 × 4 2 + 8 10
and y = = = =
m1 + m 2 3 3 3
⎛ 10 ⎞ PQ + PR
Therefore, the coordinates of centre of mass be ⎜1, ⎟ . or X CM =
⎝ 3⎠ 3
1 9. (a) C1 → Position of centre of mass of rods AB and CD (nearer
2 (c) r ∝
m to CD, as it is heavy)
3 (d) Distance distributes in inverse ratio of masses. 3m
D C
r m r 16 1 2
Hence, C = O ⇒ C = C1
d − rC m C d − rC 12
C
4 4
⇒ rC = × d = × 1.2 × 10 −10 4m 2m
7 7 C2 O
= 0.69 × 10 −10 m 3 4
4 (b) CM does not depend on the internal forces acting on the A
m B
particles.
C 2 → Position of centre of mass of rods BC and DA.
5 (b) For a single particle, distance of centre of mass from origin
is R. For more than one particle, distance ≤ R. C → Overall centre of mass of all four rods and it lies in
region 1.
m R R m
10 (b) Let the rod be along X-axis with origin at one of its ends.
x=0
As, the rod is along X-axis, so y CM = z CM = 0, i.e. centre of
For example, for two particles of equal masses, kept as shown mass will be on the rod.
in figure, distance = 0.
6 (c) Given, m1 = 1.6 kg; (x1, y1) = (0, 0) dx

m 2 = 2 kg; (x 2 , y 2 ) = (1.2, 0) x
m 3 = 2.4 kg; (x 3 , y 3 ) = (0, 1)
∴ Coordinates of centre of mass will be
m x + m 2x 2 + m 3x 3 Now, consider an element of rod of length dx at a distance x
x CM = 1 1 from the origin.
m1 + m 2 + m 3
Mass of element, dm = λdx = (A + Bx )dx
(1.6)(0) + (2)(1.2) + (2.4)(0) L L
=
1.6 + 2 + 2.4 AL2 BL3
∫ xdm ∫ x (A + Bx ) dx +
⇒ x CM = 0.4 m ∴ x CM = 0L = 0L = 2 3
m y + m2y 2 + m3y 3 BL2
and y CM = 1 1 ∫ dm ∫ (A + Bx )dx AL +
m1 + m 2 + m 3 2
0 0
(1.6)(0) + (2)(0) + (2.4)(1) L (3A + 2BL )
= =
1.6 + 2 + 2.4 3(2A + BL )
⇒ y CM = 0.4 m
11 (d) Here, the coordinate of CM of inclined rod is (a/2, a/2).
∴ Coordinates of centre of mass = (0.4, 0.4) m m x + m 2x 2 + m 3x 3
y
Q x CM = 1 1 (0, a)
7 (d) Centre of mass of 1st system already lies at (1, 2, 3). m1 + m 2 + m 3
Therefore, centre of mass of 3 kg and 5 kg should lie at (1, 2, 3).
⎛ a⎞ ⎛ a⎞
m × 0 + (m ) ⎜ ⎟ + m ⎜ ⎟
( —2a , —2a )
3(− $i + 3$j − 2 k$ ) + 5 r 5 ⎝ 2⎠ ⎝ 2⎠ a 1 3
∴ = ($i + 2$j + 3 k$ ) = =
(3 + 5) m+m+m 3
11 7 x
On solving, we get r 5 = $i + $j + 6 k$ a O 2 (a, 0)
5 5 Similarly, y CM =
3
i.e. 5 kg mass should be kept at (11/5, 7/5, 6)
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 363

12 (c) As rods are uniform, therefore centre of mass of both rods 16 (d) Centre of mass of complete disc should lie at point O. C1 is
will be at their geometrical centres. The coordinates of CM of the position of centre of mass of remaining portion and C 2 is
⎛L ⎞ the position of centre of mass of the removed disc.
first rod, C1 are ⎜ , 0⎟ and second rod, C 2 are (0, L).
⎝2 ⎠ R
y ∴ x (Area of remaining portion) = (Area of removed disc)
2
C2 2M
(0, L)

CM C1
O C2

M x x R/2
O
C1 L , 0
2

⎛ L⎞
M ⎜ ⎟ + 2M (0 ) ⎡ πR 2 ⎤ R ⎡ πR 2 ⎤
⎝ 2⎠ L ∴ x ⎢ πR 2 − =
∴ x CM =
M + 2M
=
6 ⎣ 4 ⎥⎦ 2 ⎢⎣ 4 ⎥⎦
M (0 ) + 2M (L ) 2 L R
y CM = = ∴ x=
M + 2M 3 6
⎛ L 2L ⎞ ! CHECK POINT 8.2
Hence, coordinates of CM are ⎜ , ⎟ .
⎝6 3⎠
1 (c) Centre of mass does not change its path during explosion.
1
13 (d) As, here, OC 1 = m Therefore, it will keep on falling vertically and will not shift
4 horizontally as, Fx = 0.
2 (d) Both the balls in air have acceleration g in downward
C2 direction. Hence, the acceleration of their centre of mass will
C also be g in downward direction.
(m ) (0 ) + (m ) (a ) 1
45°
3 (b) Acceleration of centre of mass, a CM = = a
m+m 2
O C1
4 (d) Vertical component of velocity of CM is zero. Horizontal
1 component of velocity of CM is non-zero. Acceleration of CM
∴ OC = OC1 cos 45° = m
4 2 is g downwards. Hence, path of CM is a parabola as shown in
y figure.
14 (d) Let centre of square is at origin. m4 m v sin!
x CM = 0 CM v
a
m1x1 + m 2x 2 + m 3x 3 + m 4 x 4
or =0 x !
m1 + m 2 + m 3 + m 4 v cos! + v cos!
a !
or (2m ) (− a ) + 4m (a ) + m (a ) + m 4 (−a ) = 0
or m 4 = 3m 2m a a 4m v
v sin!
Similarly, y CM = 0
5 (b) Net external force is zero. Hence, velocity of CM of the
or (2m ) (− a ) + 4m (− a ) + m (a ) + m 4 (a ) = 0 or m 4 = 5m box and ball system will remain constant.
Since, value of m 4 is different to be satisfied by both x CM = 0 10 (14) + 4(0 )
and y CM = 0. 6 (c) Velocity of centre of mass, v CM = = 10 ms −1
10 + 4
Hence, it is not possible.
⎛ π⎞ 2 7 (a) Since, there is no external force on the rod in horizontal
A2 ⎜ ⎟ (8) direction, the centre of mass of the rod will not move in
⎝ 4⎠
15. (d) A1 x1 = A2 x 2 ⇒ x1 = ⋅ x2 = ×6 horizontal direction.
A1 (20 )2
In vertical direction, we have gravitational force as an
= 0.75 cm from O external force, so CM of rod will come 0.5 m down, but will
not move in x-direction. So, CM will be the origin.
Thus, option (a) is correct.
O O1 m v + m 2v 2
x2
8 (d) v CM = 1 1 =0
m1 + m 2
x1
As m1v1 + m 2v 2 = 0 is given. Hence, velocity of composite
system will be zero.
364 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

9 (d) At t = 0, centre of mass is at mid-point or at (2.25m, 0). 16. (c) Initial momentum of 3m mass = 0 ...(i)
Velocity of centre of mass is zero. Hence, centre of mass will Due to explosion, this mass splits into three fragments of
remain at this position all the time. equal masses.
10 (b) After 1 s, coordinates of first particle will become v
(4 m, 4m, 6m) and coordinates of second particle will become At rest m
(6m, 4m, 8m). 3m
4+ 6
∴ X CM = = 5m Before splitting v
2 m
4+ 4
YCM = = 4m m
2 v After splitting
6+ 8
and ZCM = = 7m Final momentum of system
2
= mv + mv $i + mv $j ...(ii)
11 (a) Centre of mass will not move along Y-axis.
From law of conservation of linear momentum,
or YCM = 0 (always)
m y + m2y 2 mv + mv $i + mv $j = 0
Q YCM = 1 1
m1 + m 2 ⇒ v = − v ( $i + $j )
(m / 4) 15 + (3m / 4) ( y 2 ) 17 (a) From conservation of linear momentum,
0=
(m / 4 + 3m / 4)
m m/2 m/2
15m 3m v'
⇒ − = ( y 2) v cos ! "
4 4 v cos !
⇒ y 2 = − 5 cm
m m
12 (a) External force on system is zero, i.e. pi = p f = 0 m (v cos θ ) = v ʹ − v cos θ
2 2
∴ Centre of mass should be at rest at all instants. ∴ v ʹ = 3v cos θ
13 (b) m (u − v ) = mv (using figure) ! CHECK POINT 8.3
u
∴ v= 2 (c) Net force on ball and earth system is zero. Hence, total
2 momentum of the ball and the earth is conserved.
3 (b) In elastic collision of two identical masses, velocities are
interchanged after collision. Therefore, after collision,
u–v velocity of second body will be u.
v
5 (d) From law of conservation of momentum,
m (u – v) = mv
m Av A + m B v B = m Av B + m Bv A
u m A (v A − v B ) = m B (v A − v B )
∴ Speed of man relative to ground = u − v =
2 mA
⇒ =1
14. (c) In horizontal direction, net force on the system is zero. mB
Therefore, principle of conservation of momentum can be
applied for system (m + M ) horizontally. 6 (c) In perfectly elastic collision between two bodies of equal
masses, velocities are exchanged. So, after collision, particle A
15. (b) K1 + K2 = 2400 ...(i) will move with 10 ms −1 and particle B with 15 ms −1.
p1 = p 2
7 (a) Along x-direction, m × 50 − m × 40 = m × 0 + mv x
∴ 2K1m1 = 2K2m 2
⇒ v x = 10 cm/s
K1 m 2 3 Along y-direction, m × 0 + m × 30 = m × 0 + mv y
or = = ...(ii)
K2 m1 1 ⇒ v y = 30 cm/s
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get 8 (d) From law of conservation of energy,
K1 3 1 2 1
= mv = × kx 2
2400 − K1 1 2 2
⇒ 7200 − 3 K1 = K1 ⇒ (0.5)(1.5)2 = 50 x 2
⇒ 4K1 = 7200 1.125
⇒ x2 =
⇒ K1 = 1800 50
K1 = Kinetic energy of smaller part = 1800 J ⇒ x = 0.15 m
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 365

9 (c) m2 m1 m2 15 (b) From conservation of linear momentum,

m1 M m M m
u ⇒ v2 1 v1
u2 = 0 v1 = v' v2 = v 2 1 2
u1 = u
Before collision After collision mu = mv1 + mv 2 or u = v1 + v 2 ...(i)
From definition of e, v1 − v 2 = eu ...(ii)
⎛ m − m1⎞ 2m1u1
Q v2 = ⎜ 2 ⎟ u2 + Solving these two equations, we get
⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ m1 + m 2
⎛ 1+ e ⎞ ⎛ 1− e ⎞
2Mu
v1 = ⎜ ⎟ u and v 2 = ⎜ ⎟u
⎝ 2 ⎠ ⎝ 2 ⎠
∴ v= (Q u 2 = 0)
M+m v1 ⎛ 1 + e ⎞
∴ =⎜ ⎟
2u v 2 ⎝ 1− e ⎠
⇒ v=
m
1+
M
(A) Taking it together
10 (b) If target is at rest, then final velocity of bodies are
1 (c) The centre of mass under the given condition may be at
u1 v1 v2
m1 m2 m1 m2 rest or may be moving with constant velocity, i.e. position of
u2 = 0 CM may be at rest or moving with constant velocity.
Before collision After collision 2 (d) A bangle is in the form of a ring as shown
in the adjacent diagram. The centre of mass
⎛ m − m2 ⎞ lies at the centre which is outside the body
v1 = ⎜ 1 ⎟ u1 ...(i) C
⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ (boundary). Centre
2m1u1 dp
and v2 = ...(ii) 3. (d) We know that, for a system, Fext =
m1 + m 2 dt
From Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get (i.e. from Newton’s second law)
v1 m1 − m 2 2 m If Fext = 0, dp = 0 ⇒ p = constant
= = ⇒ 1 =5
v2 2m1 5 m2 Hence, momentum of a system will remain conserved, if
external force on the system is zero.
⎛ m − m1⎞ ⎛ 2m1 ⎞
11. (d) Qv ʹ 2 = ⎜ 2 ⎟ v2 + ⎜ ⎟ v1 In case of collision between particles, equal and opposite forces
⎝ m 2 + m1⎠ ⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠
will act on individual particles as per Newton’s third law.
and v1 = 0 Note We should not confuse with system and individual particles. As
v 2 ⎛ m 2 + m1⎞ ⎛ m + 2m ⎞ total force on the system of two particles is zero, but force acts on
∴ =⎜ ⎟ =⎜ ⎟ = −3 individual particles.
v ʹ 2 ⎝ m 2 − m1⎠ ⎝ m − 2m ⎠
2 4 (b) As, m1v1 + m 2v 2 = (m1 + m 2 ) v
K2 ⎛ v 2 ⎞
∴ = ⎜ ⎟ = 9:1 ab
Kʹ 2 ⎝ v ʹ 2 ⎠ ∴ a ⋅ b + c ⋅ 0 = (a + c ) v ⇒ v =
a+c
Relative velocity of separation 5 − 2 1
12 (b) e = = =
Relative velocity of approach 8 − 2 2 5 (b) At highest point, pi = p f and perpendicular velocity = 0
13 (b) Relative speed of approach is 12 ms −1, i.e. u1 − u 2 = 12 ms −1 So, (3m ) (100 $i ) = m (100 $j ) − m (100 $j ) + m (v )
1 v −v ∴ v = 300 $i (of third part)
e= = 2 1
3 u1 − u 2 1
–1 6 (b) Relative speed of approach is 8 ms −1, e = . Therefore,
6 ms–1 6 ms v1 v2 2
"
relative speed of separation will be 4 ms −1.
12 4 ms–1 4 ms–1 2 ms–1 2 ms–1
⇒ v 2 − v1 = = 4 ms −1 ⇒
3
Therefore, relative speed of separation will be 4 ms −1. 7 (c) F = rate of change of linear momentum
14 (a) From conservation of linear momentum, we can see that n
v In 1 s, bullets are embedded. Momentum of each bullet is mv.
velocity of 2m will become after collision (as mass is 60
2 ⎛ n⎞
∴ F = ⎜ ⎟ mv
double). ⎝ 60 ⎠
m 2m m 2m Δp
v ⇒ v/2 8 (d) F = = n (mv )
Δt
Rest
Here, n = number of bullets fired per second.
relative velocity of separation v / 2 1 F 144
Now, e = = = ∴ n= = =3
relative velocity of approach v 2 mv 0.04 × 1200
366 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

9 (a) In elastic collision, F (Δ p / Δ t ) N

∴ Pressure = =N = n × 2m × u [Q n = = 10 8 ]
relative speed of separation = relative speed of approach = v A A AΔt
2πr = 10 8 × 2 × 10 −3 × 100
∴ Time of next collision =
v = 2 × 10 7 Nm −2
10 (a) Velocity of block just after collision = 2gh = 2 × 10 × 0.2 19 (a) Velocity of particle after 5 s,
= 2 ms −1 v = u − gt = 100 − 10 × 5
Now, applying conservation of linear momentum just before = 100 − 50 = 50 ms −1 (upwards)
and just after collision,
Conservation of linear momentum gives
0.02 × 600 = 4 × 2 + 0.02 ×v
Mv = m1v1 + m 2v 2 ...(i)
∴ v = 200 ms −1 Taking upward direction positive,
11 (d) From conservation of linear momentum, velocity of v1 = − 25 ms −1, v = 50 ms −1
combined mass just after collision will be 50 cms −1, as mass M = 1kg, m1 = 400 g = 0.4 kg
has doubled. m 2 = M − m1 = 1 − 0.4 = 0.6 kg
u 2 (0.5)2 From Eq. (i), we get
Now, H = = m = 1.25 cm
2g 20 1 × 50 = 0.4 × (−25) + 0.6 v 2 or v 2 = 100 ms −1 (upwards)
12 (a) Centre of mass will remain at height h. π 2
M 20 (b) Area of circle, A1= a and area of square A2 = a 2. Since,
m × 0 + MH 4
∴ hCM = =h A 2 > A1, so centre of mass will lie inside the square plate.
m+M H CM
⎛ m⎞ h 21 (a) Due to net force in downward direction and towards left,
∴ H = h ⎜1 + ⎟ m
⎝ M⎠ centre of mass will move downward and will shift left
horizontally.
13 (a) During explosion of a cracker, path of centre of mass does
R1
not change. At height 1 m,
2
v = u − 2gh (from conservation of mechanical energy)
−1 R2
= 4 5 ms
mg
m1y1 + m 2 y 2 (10 ) (7) + (30 ) y 2
14 (d) y CM = or +1 =
m1 + m 2 10 + 30 Hence, the correct trace of centre of mass is shown in
∴ y 2 = − 1 cm option (a).
5 External force Force of friction from ground
15 (c) Here, u = − v = 126 kmh−1 = 126 × = 35 m/s 22 (d) a CM = =
18 Total mass Total mass
Change in momentum of the ball, 0.2 × (2 +1) (10) −2
= = 2 ms
150 1+ 2
Δp = m (v − u ) = (−35 − 35)
1000
23 (d) Distance between bullet and block at this instant is
3 21
= ( − 70 ) = − kg -ms −1 (D − d ).
20 2 Distance of CM from bullet
Δp −21/ 2 M (D − d ) + m × 0 M
Now, force, F = = N = −1.05 × 10 4 N = = (D − d )
Δt 0.001 M+m M+m
Here, negative sign shows that direction of force will be m
Similarly, distance of CM from block = (D − d )
opposite to the direction of movement of the ball before M+m
hitting.
Hence, option (d) is correct.
16 (c) The position of centre of the system shown in the given
24 (b) Let plank moves x distance in opposite direction. Then,
figure is likely to be at C. displacement of man relative to ground will be (L − x ).
This is because lower part of the sphere containing sand is Applying law of conservation of momentum,
heavier than upper part of the sphere containing air. x x M
4
mR R = m L L or M (L − x ) = x
⎛ 1⎞ 32 t t 3
17 (a) hn = he 2n = 32 ⎜ ⎟ = = 2 m (here, n = 2, e = 1/ 2) 3L
⎝ 2⎠ 16 Solving this equation, we get x =
4
18 (d) In 1 cm2 area, 10 4 balls are striking per second. Therefore, 3L L
in 1m2 area, 10 8 balls will strike per second. ∴ Displacement of man relative to ground = L − =
4 4
Change in momentum of each ball per second will be 2 mu.
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 367

25 (a) Velocity of block just after collision, 32 (a) Remaining time for the pieces to reach the ground,
5 × 10 −3 × 150
v=
(2 + 5 × 10 −3 ) 10 ms–1 10 ms–1 20 ms
(from conservation of linear momentum)
= 0.374 ms −1 25 ms
Let F be the force of friction, then work done against friction x x
= initial kinetic energy
1 2 × 45 2 × 20
or F × 2.7 = × 2.005 × (0.374)2 ⇒ F = 0.052 N t= − = 1s
2 10 10
27 (b) When two bodies of equal masses collide elastically, their x = 10 × 1 = 10 m
velocities are interchanged. ∴ Distance between two pieces will be 20 m.
When ball 1 collides with ball 2, then velocity of ball 1, v1 33 (d) Loss in PE = Gain in KE
becomes zero and velocity of ball 2, v 2 becomes v, i.e.
1
v1 = 0 and v 2 = v mgh1 = mv 2
2
Similarly, when ball 2 collides with ball 3 , v 2 = 0 and v 3 = v .
3 1 3gh
Hence, figure (b) is correct. mg × h = mv 2 ⇒v =
4 2 2
28 (b) We know that, v ʹ = 2gR
3gh
From conservation of linear momentum, Now, impulse imparted, J = 2mv = 2m = m 6gh
2
mv = (M + m ) v ʹ
⎛M − m⎞ 2 Mu
M+m ⎛M + m⎞ 34 (c) Here, v A = ⎜ ⎟ u and v B =
∴ v= ⋅v ʹ = ⎜ ⎟ 2gR ⎝M + m⎠ M+m
m ⎝ m ⎠
Velocity of C at maximum compression, v C = v B /2
29 (b) Velocity on hitting the surface
= 2gh = 2 × 9.8 × 4.9 1 ⎡ 2M ⎤ ⎛ M ⎞
∴ vC = u=⎜ ⎟u
2 ⎢⎣M + m ⎥⎦ ⎝M + m⎠
= 9.8 ms −1
3 ⎛ m ⎞
Velocity after first bounce, v = × 9.8 ms −1 ∴ v CA = v C − v A = ⎜ ⎟u
4 ⎝M + m⎠
2v 35 (b) In one dimensional elastic collision between two equal
Time taken from first bounce to the second bounce =
g masses, their velocities are interchanged. Therefore, change
3 1 in linear momentum of any of the particle will be mu.
=2× × 9.8 × = 1.5 s
4 9.8 Now, impulse or area under F-t graph gives the change in
linear momentum.
30 (a) Let u A and u B be the velocities of A and B respectively
F
before impact and v A and v B be the velocities of A and B after
impact.
F0
p−J
A uA B ⇒ A B J
t
Before impact, u B = 0 T/2 T
p = mu A 1 2mu
∴ F0T = mu or F0 =
After impact, p − J = mv A and J = mv B 2 T
v −vA J − (p − J )
Coefficient of restitution, e = B = 36 (a) Here, the force F must be acting on CM of system.
uA − uB p
Let, m1 = m, m 2 = 2m
2J − p 2J
= = −1 D m
p p A x
y1 B
31 (d) m (3$i + 2$j ) = m (−2$i + $j ) + M v l F P

(5$i + $j ) 2m
∴ v= ms −1 (put, M = 13m)
13 l
Impulse, Jm = p f − pi = ± m [(−2$i + $j ) − (3$i + 2$j )] y2
C
∴ Jm = ± m (5i$ + $j ) kg-ms −1 y
368 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

m × 0 + 2ml 2l l
Taking D as origin, y CM = = 41 (b) We know that, v r =
m + 2m 3 t
2l 4l Now, m (v r − v ) = Mv (v = speed of plank)
From C, CP = 2l − =
3 3 mv r l ⎛ m ⎞
∴ v= = ⎜ ⎟
37 (a) Let the ball be projected vertically downward with M + m t ⎝M + m⎠
velocity v from height h.
A 42 (d) Here, 2πR = 2π ⇒ R = 1
v v=0
m × 0 + m × 1+ m × 1 2
∴ y CM = =
m+m+m 3
h m (π ) + m (0 ) + m (2π )
and x CM = =π
m+m+m
43 (b) From conservation of linear momentum,
1 2 v 3m
Total energy at point A = mv + mgh m1v1 = m 5gl + m1 1 or v1 = 5gl
2 3 2 m1
During collision, loss of energy is 50% and the ball rises up to 44 (a) Here, A1(CC1) = A2 (CC 2 )
same height. This means it possesses only potential energy at
same level. where, A = area of square and A2 = area of remaining portion.
⎛1 ⎞
50% ⎜ mv 2 + mgh⎟ = mgh
⎝2 ⎠
1⎛1 2 ⎞ C2 C C1
⎜ mv + mgh⎟ = mgh ⇒v = 2gh = 2 × 10 × 20
2 ⎝2 ⎠
∴ v = 20 ms −1
38 (b) The centre of mass of the object must lie on the line
segment joining (0, 0) and (R / 2, R / 2 ). Here, (0, 0) is the R
Side of square will be .
centre of mass of the ring and (R / 2, R / 2 ) is the centre of 2
mass of the chord. A1 (R / 2 )2 ⎛ R⎞ ⎛ R ⎞
∴ CC 2 = (CC1) = ⎜ ⎟ =⎜ ⎟
Hence, here option (b) cannot be the coordinate of CM of the A2 πR − (R / 2 )2
2 ⎝ 2⎠ ⎝ 4π − 2⎠
system.
39 (a) P is the position of centre of mass of particles at 2 and 3. 45 (b) Centre of mass of remaining portion was at point O 2.
Q is position of centre of mass of all three particles. Hence, x 2 (area of remaining portion) = c (area of removed
disc)
y
3 cb 2
∴ x 2 (π a 2 − π b 2 ) = c (π b 2 ) ⇒ x 2 = 2
a − b2
P

Q
θ x
d d ⎛ 1⎞ 2d
2
46 (b) T = + = ⎜1 + ⎟
1 v / 2 ev / 2 ⎝ e⎠ v
2v / 2 ⎛ 1⎞ 2d gd
or = ⎜1 + ⎟ or e = 2
g ⎝ e⎠ v v − gd
y CM m1y1 + m 2 y 2 + m 3 y 3 Δp Δ (mn v ) v
tan θ = = 47 (b) F = =
x CM m1x1 + m 2x 2 + m 3x 3 Δt Δt
6× 0 + 2× 0 + 2×a Here, m = mass of one marble = 5 g = 5 × 10 −3 kg
= = 1 or θ = 45°
6× 0 + 2×a + 2× 0 n
= number of molecules striking per second
40 (c) Velocity of A just before collision Δt v
= 10
= 2gh = 2 × 10 × 1.25 = 5 ms −1 ⎛n⎞
∴ Mg = m ⎜ ⎟ | Δv | (Q | Δv | = 2v )
5 ⎝ Δt ⎠
Velocity of (A + B ) just after collision = = 2.5 ms −1
2 Here, M = mass of disc
In elastic collision between two bodies of equal masses, (10 × 10 −3 ) (9.8) = (5 × 10 −3 ) (10 ) 2 v
velocities are interchanged.
or v = 0.98 ms −1
Hence, velocity of C will become 2.5 ms −1.
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 369

v1 ev2
mx + 2mx 2m
48 (d) X CM = C
m + 2m x
D v1 ⇒ v1
1 x + 2x 2m tAB = x/v1 A
∴ a CMt 2 =
2 3 tCD = x/2v1 v2
3⎛ F ⎞ 2 B
∴ ⎜ ⎟ t = x + 2x 2m [Q F = Ma CM]
2 ⎝ 3m ⎠
v2
Ft 2 x From C to D, v 2 = 2gx = gt ⇒ t =
∴ x 2m = − g
4m 2
From A to B, time will become two times.
49 (a) For collision between A and B,
1
10 ms−1 Applying s = ut + at 2 in vertical direction, we have
A B ⇒ A vA B vB 2
1
− x = (ev 2 ) (2t ) − × g × (2t )2
m × 10 = mv A + mv B ⇒v B + v A = 10 ...(i) 2
1 v −vA 2ev 22 2v 22
e= = B or v B − v A = 5 ...(ii) −x = − ⇒ − x = 2e (2x ) − 2(2x )
2 10 g g
Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get 3
∴ e=
v B = 7.5 ms −1 4
Hence, A has given 75% of its speed to B and B will also 53 (a) After striking with A, the block C comes to rest and block
transfer its 75% speed to C. A moves with velocity v. When compression in spring is
75 maximum, both A and B will be moving with common
∴ vC = × 7.5 = 5.625 ms −1 −
~ 5.6 ms −1
velocity v.
100
C A B
π ⎛M ⎞ 2Mv
50 (b) p net = ∫ dp sin θ = ∫ ⎜ ⋅ d θ⎟ v ⋅ sin θ = m m m
0 ⎝π ⎠ π

dp
From law of conservation of linear momentum,
90° – v
θ mv = (m + m )V ⇒ V = …(i)
2
dp From law of conservation of energy,
dθ KE of block C = KE of system + PE of system
θ
1 2 1 1
mv = (2m )V 2 + kx 2
2 2 2
2
51 (a) In head on elastic collision, 1 2 1 ⎛v ⎞ 1
⇒ mv = (2m ) ⎜ ⎟ + kx 2 [from Eq. (i)]
2 2 ⎝ 2⎠ 2
⎛m / 2 − m⎞ ⎡ 2(m ) ⎤ 4
v1 = ⎜ ⎟ (0 ) + ⎢ ⎥ (v ) = 3 v 1 m
⎝m / 2 + m⎠ ⎣m / 2 + m ⎦ ⇒ kx 2 = mv 2 ⇒ x = v
2 2k
m m/2 m/2 m/4
2
v
1 ⇒
v1
(B) Medical entrance special
n −1
format questions
⎛ 4⎞
Finally, vn = ⎜ ⎟ ⋅v = 5gr ! Assertion and reason
⎝ 3⎠
n −1 | RVOS, i. e . relative velocity of separation |
⎛ 3⎞ 1 (d) e =
∴ v =⎜ ⎟ 5gr | RVOA, i. e . relative velocity of approach |
⎝ 4⎠
In elastic collision, e = 1
52 (b) The given situation is shown below ∴ | RVOS | = | RVOA |
2 (d) If two bodies are released from rest F F
x in space, net force on the system is 1 2
zero. Momentum of system is constant
x/2 x/2 but momentum of individual body is not constant. Further,
x
kinetic energy of system is also increasing.
x/2 x/2
3 (d) Only in case of perfectly inelastic collision, they will come
to rest.
370 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

4 (a) Linear momentum will not remain constant till spring will 1 80
∴ | v CM | = 16 + 64 = unit
remain compressed. Therefore, a force will act on block A 3 3
from the wall. 2
m (+ v ) + m B (− v ) s1 = ∫ v1 dt = (4$i )
0
5 (b) v CM = A = − ve
mA + mB 2 ⎛8 ⎞
s2 = ∫ v 2 dt = ⎜ $j⎟
Both A and B will have same acceleration (µ g) on A towards 0 ⎝3 ⎠
left and on B towards right. Since, B have more mass, so
⎛8 ⎞
acceleration of CM will be towards right. (1) (4$i ) + 2 ⎜ $j⎟
m1s1 + m 2s 2 ⎝ 3 ⎠ ⎛ 4 $ 16 $⎞
6 (c) In this case, centre of mass of half filled sphere will Now, s CM = = =⎜ i+ j⎟
m1 + m 2 3 ⎝3 9 ⎠
depend only on radius and not on density of liquid inside.
Since, both spheres are of same radius, so both will have CM 16 256 20
∴ | s CM | = + = unit
at the same level. 9 81 9
! Statement based questions Hence, A → q, B → r, C → p.

1 (b) Packet from train A falls with greater momentum on train 3 (c) p1 + p 2 = p ...(i)
B. Therefore, train B is slightly accelerated while A will be p,K p1 p2
retarded. m 2m ⇒ m 2m
2 (d) Force of friction on A is backward and force of friction on
B is forward. Net external force on the system is zero. Hence, Further, K1 + K2 = K
momentum of system will remain conserved. As the p12 p2 p2
momentum of system is conserved, so increase in momentum or + 2 = or 2p12 + p 22 = 2p 2 ...(ii)
2m 4m 2m
of B is equal to decrease in momentum of A.
Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
3 (d) Due to the same mass of A and B as well as due to elastic 4 p K 8K
collision, velocities of spheres get interchanged after the p 2 = p and p1 = − , K1 = and K2 =
3 3 9 9
collision. So, A comes to rest and B moves with the velocity of A.
Hence, A → r, B → p, C → q, D → s.
4 (d) If centre of mass is at rest, it definitely means momentum
of the system is constant. But if momentum of the system is
constant, it does not mean centre of mass is at rest.
(C) Medical entrances’ gallery
1 (b) Given, m1 = 5 kg, m 2 = 10 kg
5. (d) If kinetic energy of the system is zero, it definitely means
momentum is zero. But if momentum of the system is zero, it and r = 1m = 100 cm
does not mean kinetic energy is zero. Let the centre of mass lies at origin O.
v v
m1 O m2
m m
A r1 r2 B
6 (a) Statement I is correct and Statement II is incorrect and it
r
can be corrected as,
m11
r − m 2r2 r
During collision time, some kinetic energy is stored as ∴ = 0 ⇒ 5r1 − 10r2 = 0 ⇒ r2 = 1
potential energy in the form of deformation. m1 + m 2 2
r1
! Match the columns Also, r1 + r2 = 100 ⇒ r1 + = 100
2
1 (b) When e = 1, collision is elastic and equal masses exchange 200
⇒ 3r1 = 200 ⇒ r1 = −~ 67 cm
their velocities. 3
For e = 0, collision is perfectly inelastic. Hence, velocity of
each will remain half. 2 (c) The given situation as shown in the figure.
3
In the last case, when v 2 = v ʹ = v . j
v 4
Then, v1 = (from conservation of momentum) M B
4 3v v
−
∴ e= 4 4= 1 2m
v 2
Hence, A → q, B → p, C → r. A
OM i
M
2 (a) F = F + F = m a + m a = (2$i + 8$j )
CM 1 2 11 2 2 2m
∴ | FCM | = 4 + 64 ⇒ | FCM | = 68 unit OA = 2i$
m1v1 + m 2v 2 (1) (4$i ) + (2) (4$j ) 4$i + 8$j OB = 2$j
v CM = = =
m1 + m 2 3 3
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 371

Position vector of centre of mass, ∴Net decrease in kinetic energy of A ,

M r + M2r2 + M3r3 M (OA ) + M (OB) ΔKE = (KE )A − (KEʹ )A = 2mu 2 − 2mv12
R CM = 1 1 =
M1 + M2 + M3 M+M+M = 2m (u 2 − v12 )
M × 2i$ + M × 2$j 2 $ $ Substituting the value of v1, we get
= = (i + j )
3M 3 ⎛ u 2 ⎞ 16 mu 2
ΔKE = 2m ⎜u 2 − ⎟ =
3 (a) The given situation of collision can be drawn as ⎝ 9⎠ 9
4m 2m ∴The fractional decrease in kinetic energy,
ΔKE 16 mu 2 1 8
u u'= 0 = × =
(KE )A 9 2 mu 2 9
A B
!""""#"""""$ 4 (a) Let m be the mass of an object flying with velocity v in air.
Before collision When it gets split into two pieces of masses in ratio 1 : 5, the
4m 2m 5m
mass of smaller piece is m/6 and of bigger piece is .
6
v1 v2
This situation can be interpreted diagrammatically as below.
A B v1
!""""#"""""$
After collision m/6

Applying law of conservation of linear momentum, m v

Initial momentum of system = Final momentum of system
5m/6
⇒ (4m )u + (2m )uʹ = (4m )v1 + (2m )v 2
v2
4mu + (2m ) × 0 = 4mv1 + 2mv 2
or 2u = 2v1 + v 2 … (i) As, the object breaks in two pieces, so the momentum of the
The kinetic energy of A before collision, system will remains conserved, i.e. the total momentum
(before breaking) = total momentum (after breaking)
1
(KE)A = (4m )u 2 = 2 mu 2 m 5m v 5v 2
2 mv = v 1 + v2 ⇒ v = 1 + …(i)
6 6 6 6
Kinetic energy of B before collision,
(KE)B = 0 Given, v = 20 i$ + 25$j − 12k$
The kinetic energy of A after collision, and v 1 = 100 i$ + 35$j + 8k$
1 Putting these values in Eq. (i), we get
(KEʹ )A = (4m )v12 = 2mv12
2 (100 $i + 35$j + 8k$ ) 5v 2
Kinetic energy of B after collision, (20 $i + 25$j − 12k$ ) = +
6 6
1
(KEʹ )B = (2m )v 22 = mv 22 ⇒ (120 $i + 150 $j − 72k$ ) = (100 i$ + 35$j + 8k$ ) + 5v 2
2
1
As, initial kinetic energy of the system = final kinetic energy ⇒ v2 = (20 i$ + 115$j − 80 k$ )
of the system 5
⇒ (KE )A + (KE )B = (KEʹ )A + (KEʹ )B = 4$i + 23$j − 16k$
2 mu 2 + 0 = 2mv12 + mv 22 5 (d) The particle of mass 5m breaks into three fragments of
2mu 2 = 2mv12 + mv 22 masses m, m and 3m, respectively. Two fragments of mass m
each move in perpendicular directions with velocity v and the
or 2u 2 = 2v12 + v 22 … (ii) left fragment will move in a direction with velocity vʹ such
Solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get that the total momentum of the system must remain
1 4 conserved.
v1 = u and v 2 = u v
3 3
or the final velocity of A can be directly calculated by using v
5m m m
the formula,
⎛ m − m2 ⎞ 2m 2u 2 v =0
v1 = ⎜ 1 ⎟ u1 + 3m
⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ m1 + m 2 v
⎛ 4m − 2m ⎞ 2(2m ) × 0 By law of conservation of momentum,
=⎜ ⎟u + (Q u 2 = uʹ = 0 )
⎝ 4m + 2m ⎠ (4m + 2m ) 5 m × 0 = mv i$ + mv $j + 3mv ʹ
2m 1 v $ v $
= u= u ⇒ vʹ = − i− j
6m 3 3 3
372 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

2 2 relative velocity of separation

⎛ v⎞ ⎛ v⎞ v 2 e=
∴ | vʹ | = ⎜ − ⎟ + ⎜ − ⎟ = relative velocity of approach
⎝ 3⎠ ⎝ 3⎠ 3
v
∴ Energy released, −0
v 2 − v1
1 2 1 2 1 ⎛v 2 ⎞
2
=− =−4 [from Eq. (i)]
E = mv + mv + × 3m ⎜ ⎟ u 2 − u1 0 −v
2 2 2 ⎝ 3 ⎠
= 1/ 4
mv 2 4 2
= mv 2 + = mv ∴ e = 0.25
3 3
11 (b) Velocity of centre of mass,
6 (a) Given, mass of body, m1 = 5 × 10 3 kg mv + m 2v 2 + m 3v 3
v CM = 1 1
Velocity, v1 = 2 ms −1 m1 + m 2 + m 3
and mass of another body, m 2 = 15 × 10 3 kg Given, m1 = 5 kg, v1 = 5 ms −1,
For perfectly inelastic collision, e = 0. m 2 = 4 kg, v 2 = 4 ms −1, m 3 = 2 kg and v 3 = 2 ms −1
∴Loss in kinetic energy of system,
Substituting all these values in above equation, we get
1 m1m 2
ΔE K = × v12 5 × 5 + 4 × 4 + 2 × 2 25 + 16 + 4
2 m1 + m 2 v CM = =
5+ 4+ 2 11
1 5 × 10 3 × 15 × 10 3 45
= × × (2)2 ∴ v CM = = 4.09 ≈ 4 ms −1
2 5 × 10 3 + 15 × 10 3 11
= 7.5 × 10 3 J 12. (a) From law of conservation of momentum,
= 7.5 kJ Mv + m × 0 = Mv1 + mv 2
⇒ M (v − v1) = mv 2 …(i)
7 (b) In elastic collision, total energy, kinetic energy and
momentum remain conserved, therefore no loss in energy Again, from the conservation of kinetic energy (as collision is
of elastic nature),
occurs in elastic collision.
1 1 1 1
Hence, both Assertion and Reason are correct but Reason is Mv 2 + m × 0 = Mv12 + mv 22
2 2 2 2
not the correct explanation of Assertion.
⇒ M (v 2 − v12 ) = mv 22 …(ii)
8 (c) When object of mass 20 kg moving with speed 10 ms −1 in
west direction collides with object of mass 10 kg and both of On solving Eqs. (i) and (ii), we get
them stick together, hence it is perfectly inelastic collision. In M (v − v1) mv 2
=
inelastic collision, only momentum is conserved. M (v + v1)(v − v1) mv 22
9 (c) Speed of objects = u ms −1 v 2 = v + v1 …(iii)
Since, both objects collide at 90°. Now, solving Eqs. (i) and (iii), we get
Hence, by the law of conservation of momentum, (M − m )v
v1 =
Total momentum before collision (M + m )
= Total momentum after collision 2Mv
and v2 =
|mu $i + mu $j| = p f (M + m )
m 2u 2 + m 2u 2 = p f As, M >> m
So, v1 = v and v 2 = 2v
⇒ p f = 2 mu
Hence, velocity of lighter body (m) is 2v.
10 (b) Since, the collision mentioned is an elastic head on 13. (a) If two particles are initially moving in the same direction,
collision. Thus, according to the law of conservation of linear then their resultant momentum will not be zero. Therefore,
momentum, we have their resultant momentum cannot be zero after a completely
m1u1 + m 2u 2 = mv
1 1 + m 2v 2
inelastic collision.
where, m1 and m 2 are the masses of the two blocks As, kinetic energy is directly proportional to the square of the
respectively, u1 and u 2 are their initial velocities and v1 and v 2 momentum, hence kinetic energy cannot be zero. This
are their final velocities, respectively. implies, not all the energy in inelastic collision is lost.
Given, m1 = m, m 2 = 4m Hence, both Assertion and Reason are correct and Reason is
u1 = v, u 2 = 0 and v1 = 0 the correct explanation of Assertion.
∴ mv + 4m × 0 = 0 + 4mv 2 14 (c) Given, m = 0.5 kg, v = 12 ms −1, Δt = 1s
v and θ = 30 °
⇒ mv = 4mv 2 or v 2 = …(i)
4 Force applied by wall on ball,
Now, the coefficient of restitution,
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 373

Δp (p f )H − (pi )H v 02
F = or F = ∴ mv 02 = kx 02 + (3m )
Δt Δt 9
mv 02 2mv 02
m ⇒ kx 02 = mv 02 − ⇒ kx 02 =
3 3
2mv 02
∴ k=
θ 3x 02
θ 1 1
18 (c) Total initial energy = m1u12 + m 2 u22
2 2
Since, after collision one particle absorbs energy ε.
m 1 1
∴ Total final energy = m1v12 + m 2v 22 + ε
Q In this elastic collision, final and initial velocities will be 2 2
same but direction changes From conservation of energy,
(p f )H = mv cos θ 1 1 1 1
m1u12 + m 2 u22 = m1v12 + m 2v 22 + ε
and (pi )H = −mv cos θ 2 2 2 2
mv cos θ + mv cos θ 2mv cos θ 1 1 1 1
∴ F = = ⇒ m1u12 + m 2 u22 − ε = m1v12 + m 2v 22
Δt Δt 2 2 2 2
2 × 0.5 × 12 × cos 30 ° 19 (b) Applying the law of conservation of momentum to the
F = = 6 3N
1 1
system, mgh = kx 2
1 m12u12 m1m 2u12 2
15 (c) Loss of kinetic energy = m1u12 − = Given, m = 0.04 kg, h = 5 m, k = 400 Nm −1
2 2 (m1 + m 2 ) 2 (m1 + m 2 )
and x = deformation (compression) in the spring
Given, m1 = 4 kg,u1 = 12 ms −1,
2mgh 2 × 0.04 × 10 × 5
m 2 = 6 kg and u 2 = 0 ⇒ x= =
k 400
1 4×6 1 24
∴ Δ KE = (12)2 = × × (12)2 1
2 (4 + 6) 2 10 = m = 10 cm ≈ 9.8 cm
10
12
= × 144 = 172.8 J 20 (a) Let the velocity of block of mass 2 m after the collision be
10
vʹ, then from law of conservation of momentum,
16 (c) Given, masses, m1 = 6 unit and m 2 = 2 unit
v
Positions = 6$i − 7$j and 2$i + 5$j − 8k$ mv = 2mv ʹ ⇒ v ʹ =
2
Coordinates of centre of mass are calculated below Now, the coefficient of restitution,
m x + m 2x 2 6 × 6 + 2 × 2 36 + 4 velocity of separation v ʹ v / 2 1
x CM = 1 1 = = = 5$i e= = = = = 0.5
m1 + m 2 6+ 2 8 velocity of approach v v 2
m y + m 2 y 2 6 × (− 7) + 2 × (5)
y CM = 1 1 = 21 (b) Let the maximum compression in the spring be x. From
m1 + m 2 6+ 2
1
− 42 + 10 $ law of conservation of energy, mgh = kx 2
= = – 4j 2
8
1
m z + m 2z 2 6 × (0 ) + 2 × (− 8) − 16 10 × 10 −3 × 10 × 10 = × 200 × x 2
and z CM = 1 1 = = = − 2k$ 2
m1 + m 2 6+ 2 8
⇒ x 2 = 10 × 10 −3 = 10 −2
∴ Centre of mass lies at 5$i – 4$j − 2k$ .
1 1
⇒ Coordinates of centre of mass are (5, −4, −2). ⇒ x= = m = 0.1 m
100 10
17 (d) Using the law of conservation of linear momentum, we Thus, compression in the spring is 0.1m.
have
22 (c) Let the speed of the board be u and frog jumps with angle
mv 0 = mv + 2mv ⇒ v = v 0 / 3
of inclination to the board θ, then from law of conservation of
momentum in horizontal direction,
m m 2m mv cos θ − mu = 0, u = v cos θ …(i)
C v0 A B Let distance moved by board be x.
So, L − x = ut …(ii)
Using law of conservation of energy, we have and x = v cos θ t …(iii)
1 2 1 2 1 Solving above equations, we get
mv 0 = kx 0 + (3m )v 2
2 2 2 L
x=
where, x 0 is compression in the spring. 2
374 OBJECTIVE Physics Vol. 1

v 2 sin 2θ mv
Also, 27 (b) +Y
x=
g
L v 2 sin 2 θ
⇒ = 45°
2 g −X
45°
mv
+X
gL
⇒ v=
2 sin 2θ vʹ
−Y
Hence, v should be minimum for sin 2 θ = 1(i.e. maximum)
gL 10 2(mv ) = Resultant momentum of two small masses
⇒ vmin = = 10 × = 50
2 2 v
2 (mv ) = (2m ) × v ʹ ⇒ v ʹ =
= 5 2 ms −1 2
So, total kinetic energy generated by the explosion
23 (b) As, net horizontal force acting on the system is zero, hence
momentum must remain conserved. 1 1 1
= mv 2 + mv 2 + (2m ) v ʹ 2
Hence, mu + 0 = 0 + Mv 2 2 2 2
2
mu ⎛ v ⎞ mv 2 3
⇒ v2 = = mv 2 + m × ⎜ ⎟ = mv 2 + = mv 2
M ⎝ 2⎠ 2 2
| (v − v )| |v − 0|
Coefficient of restitution, e = 2 1 = 2 28 (d) Given, p = a + bt + ct 2
| (u 2 − u1)| |0 − u|
Differentiating with respect to t, we get
mu
dp
v2 M m = 0 + b + 2ct
= = = dt
u u M
dp
24 (c) When a body falls from height h, it strikes the ground with From Newton’s second law of motion, F ∝
dt
a velocity u = 2gh . Let it rebounces with a velocity v and
⇒ F ∝ t or force is dependent linearly on time.
rise to a height h1.
v h 29 (d) The position of centre of mass of a system of particles does
v = 2gh1 ⇒ e = = 1 not depend upon the nature of particles.
u h Σmi ri
rCM =
Clearly, h1 = e 2h Σmi
25 (a) The figure given in question is 30 (b) We have, p1 + p 2 + p 3 = 0 (Q p = mv )
Y ∴ 1 × 12 $i + 2 × 8$j + p 3 = 0
C 1.5 kg
⇒ 12$i + 16$j + p 3 = 0 ⇒ p 3 = − (12$i + 16$j )
5c
(0,

3 cm m ∴ p 3 = (12)2 + (16)2 = 144 + 256

3)

= 20 kg-ms −1
(0, 0) (4, 0)
A 4 cm B X p 3 20
Now, p 3 = m 3v 3 ⇒ m 3 = = = 5 kg
0.5 kg 1 kg v3 4
Let X andY-axes be along AB and AC, respectively. The
31 (c) After firing, the momentum of gun and bullet is same.
coordinates of centre of mass would be
p2
1.5 × 0 + 1 × 4 + 1.5 × 0 4 Therefore, by the relation, K =
XCM = = = 1.3 2m
1.5 + 0.5 + 1 3 1
We have, K∝ (As p is same)
0.5 × 0 + 4 × 0 + 1.5 × 3 1.5 × 3 m
and YCM = = = 1.5
1.5 +1 +0.5 3 As, the mass of gun is greater, hence its kinetic energy will be
Hence, (X CM, YCM ) = (1.3 , 1.5) less.
26 (b) As large number of particles are situated at a distance R 32 (c) In all types of collisions, total linear momentum of
from the origin. If particles are uniformly distributed and colliding particles remains conserved.
make a circular boundary around the origin, then centre of 33 (d) Given, mass = m
mass will be at the origin.
While, if the particles are not uniformly distributed, then ma $i + mb $j + m (0 ) k$
Position of centre of mass, rCM =
centre of mass will lie between particle and origin. This 3m
implies that the distance between centre of mass and origin is 1 $
always less than or equal to R. ⇒ rCM = (a i + b$j )
3
COM, Conservation of Momentum and Collision 375

34 (b) From the law of conservation of momentum, 40 (a) The given condition as shown in the figure below.
mv + m × 0 = (m + m )v ʹ m
mv1 sin θ
mv v
⇒ vʹ = ⇒ vʹ = m
(m + m ) 2 m
30° mv1 cos θ
2 30°
u 2 2 Before mv2 cos θ
and we know that, h = (Q v − u = 2gh )
2g collision
m
mv2 sin θ
Here, u = vʹ
After collision
(v ʹ )2 ⎛ v⎞
So, h= ⎜Q v ʹ = ⎟ After collision, mv1 sin θ = mv 2 sin θ ⇒ v1 = v 2 = v
2g ⎝ 2⎠
∴ 2 mv cos θ = m × 9
v2
⇒ h= ⇒ 2v cos 30 ° = 9
8g 9
⇒ v= = 3 3 = 5.2 ms −1
35 (b) In an inelastic collision, kinetic energy before collision is 3
not equal to kinetic energy after collision. But the linear
41 (c) Velocity of centre of mass,
momentum is conserved in all types of collisions.
dr dr
36 (c) Initial momentum, p = m v $i + m × 0 m1 1 + m 2 2 $ $ $
i 2 1
v CM = dt dt = 4 × 5 i + 2 × 10 i = 40 i = 20 $i
y m1 + m 2 4+ 2 6 3
v/2 The kinetic energy of centre of mass,
B 1 2 1 20 × 20
v K = mv CM = × (4 + 2) ×
θ x 2 2 3×3
B A
(m2) Rest A v1 1 20 × 20 400
(m1) = ×6× = J
2 3×3 3
Final momentum, p f = m 2 (v / 2) $j + m1 × v1 42 (b) From law of conservation of momentum,
From law of conservation of momentum, u 1
mu = (m + m ) v ⇒ v = = m/s
pi = p f 2 2
v Now, maximum height reached by the system,
m 2v i = m 2 $j + m1 × v1
$
2 v2 1 1 5
h= = = × 100 = = 1.25 cm
m m v 2g 8g 80 4
v1 = 2 v $i − 2 $j
m1 m1 2
43 (c) The centre of mass of the system,
1
From this equation, we can find, tan θ = m x + m 2x 2
2 rCM = 1 1
m1 + m 2
⎛ 1⎞
⇒ θ = tan−1 ⎜ ⎟ to the X-axis. O m1 m2
⎝ 2⎠
x1
37 (c) Here, net external force on the entire system is zero, x2
hence position of centre of mass remains unchanged.
44 (a) Final kinetic energy of the block along with the bullet
38 (d) Using law of conservation of momentum, we get 1
100 × v = 0.25 × 100 when the bullet strikes = (m + M )v 2
2
⇒ v = 0.25 ms −1 Due to this kinetic energy, the block will rise to a height h.
39 (b) Initial momentum of the system Its potential energy = (m + M ) gh
= m1 × 40 + m 2 × 0 = 40 m1 So, from the law of conservation of energy,
1
Final momentum of the system (M + m )v 2 = (M + m )gh ⇒ v = 2gh
= (m1 + m 2 ) × 30 2
By the law of conservation of momentum, 45 (b) Given, mass, m1 = m 2
Initial momentum = Final momentum Velocity, u1 = v1 and u 2 = 0
40m1 = (m1 + m 2 )30 ⎛ m − m1⎞ 2m1u1
40 m1 − 30 m1 = 30 m 2 For elastic collision, v 2 = ⎜ 2 ⎟ u2 +
⎝ m1 + m 2 ⎠ m1 + m 2
⇒ 10 m1 = 30 m 2
After putting the given values, we get
m1 3
⇒ = 2m v
m2 1 v 2 = 1 1 ⇒ v 2 = v1
2m1